Welcome!
Northwestern Connecticut Community College
Mission Statement
The mission of Northwestern Connecticut Community College is to inspire
learning through accessible, high quality education. Northwestern is
devoted to enriching lives by meeting individual and community needs in a
supportive environment, while facilitating access to
lifelong learning opportunities.
Your success is our goal!
Our goal is to help you succeed at Northwestern. This booklet is designed to assist you in finding
the answers to questions frequently asked by new students. More detailed information is
available in the College catalog.
We are a small, friendly College. Faculty and staff are accessible and more than willing to assist
you in any way. Do not hesitate to ask questions. Many new students come to Northwestern
with a feeling of excitement or uneasiness, or both. To all of you, WELCOME!
Northwestern is proud of the diversity within its student body and the richness of life experiences
that its students bring to each other. In the fall of 2014, Northwestern enrolled 1,614 students
from 90 towns and cities across Connecticut, as well as students from Florida, Massachusetts,
New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. Out of the current enrollment, women comprise 69%
of the entire student body.
This Student Handbook is an attempt to familiarize you with procedures that the faculty, staff and
students have found helpful in promoting an environment conducive to learning at the College as
well as preserving your health, safety and comfort.
If you do not find the answers to your questions in the following pages, please be sure to consult
a faculty or staff member who will be happy to help you.
1
Women’s Resource Center
Table of Contents
Highlights and Calendar
Where do I go?
Building Directory
Map of Campus
Founders Hall, basement and first floor
Founders Hall, second and third floors
Joyner Learning Center,
first floor and lower level
Green Woods Hall, first, second and
third floors
Learning Resource Center,
upper & lower levels
Art & Science Center
3
4
5
6
7
8
POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
Absences
Academic Probation and Suspension
Student Academic and Financial
Aid Appeals
Fresh Start Option
Admission Policy
Alcoholic Beverages
Campus Disturbances
Computing Policy
Notice of Non-Discrimination
Parking
Parking Map
Policy on a Drug-Free Workplace
Policy on Accommodations of Religious
Beliefs & Practices
Policy Against Sexual Harassment
Policy on Violence in The Workplace
Prevention
Policy on Consensual Relationships
Sex Offenders on Campus
Smoking
Telephone/Supply Use
Trading/Soliciting
9
10
11
12
DIRECTORY OF COLLEGE SERVICES
Academic Advising Procedures
13
Academic Success Center
14
Advisors
14
Bookstore
14
Building Codes
14
Career Counseling
15
Collegiate Education for the Deaf and
Hard of Hearing Program
15
College Catalog
15
Computer Center
& Internet Wireless Set-up Outline
16
Course Substitution
17
Faculty Office Hours
17
Financial Aid & Student Employment 17,47
Satisfactory Academic Progress for
Financial Aid
18
ID Cards
20
Information Center
20
Learning Resource Center (Library)
20
Lost & Found
21
Mental Health Concerns
21
Restrooms
21
Scholarship Information
21
Student Activities
21
Student Records
22
Transcript Request
22
Transfer Planning
22
Veterans Information
22
WIA Liaison
23
28
28
28
29
30
30
31
31
31
32
32
35
36
37
38
39
41
42
42
42
42
GENERAL INFORMATION
Class Cancellation Information
43
Credit by Examination
43
Disability/Accessibility Services
43
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) 44
Facilities
44
Field Trip Policies
44
Fire, Bomb, and Emergency Alert
Procedures
45
First Aid Procedures
45
Graduation
45
Insurance
46
Jobs & Jobs on Campus
46
Matriculation
46
Publication (Campus Voice)
23, 46
Registration
46
Withdrawal from the College
47
Withdrawal from Courses
47
Attention Financial Aid Recipients
47
STUDENT INVOLVEMENT
Activities
23
Athletics, Fitness, Wellness Programs 23
Campus Events Calendar
23
Campus Newsletter
(Campus Voice)
23, 46
Clubs and Student Organizations
24
Community Service
26
Scheduling and Supervision of
Campus Events
26
Student Representation on College
Professional Committees
26
Student Senate
27
STUDENT RIGHTS
Policy on Rights of Students
Sexual Misconduct and Relationship
Violence Statement & SART
Drug and Alcohol Issues
Family Educational Rights and
Privacy Act (FERPA)
Crime Awareness and Campus
Security Act
Student Senate Constitution
Staff Listing
Index
2
48
54
58
60
62
64
70
73
Highlights and Calendar
IMPORTANT DATES 2015 – 2016
FALL SEMESTER 2015
Advisement
(August 31, 2015 through December 23, 2015)
All full time students must see a faculty
advisor prior to registration for each
semester. Part-time students are
encouraged to do the same (see page 13).
August 25
New Student Orientation (Evening)
August 27
New Student Orientation (Daytime)
August 28
Last Day for 100% Tuition Refund
August 31
CLASSES BEGIN
Bookstore
September 7
Labor Day – COLLEGE CLOSED
The Bookstore is located on the second floor
of Green Woods Hall.
Regular hours
Monday – Thursday: 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Friday: 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
The Bookstore will offer extended hours
before and after the semester begins.
September 14
Last Day to Add/Drop Courses and
Last Day for 50% Tuition Refund
September 17
Constitution Day Observed
Classes in Session
September 28
Last Day to change to AUDIT status
November 9
Last Day to Make-up Incompletes
November 16
Last Day to Withdraw from Classes
Financial Aid
November 20
January Graduation Applications Due
Applications are accepted throughout the
school year. To apply, complete the FREE
APPLICATION for FEDERAL STUDENT
AID (FAFSA). Apply on line at
http://www.fafsa.ed.gov (see page 17).
Nov 25-29
Thanksgiving Recess – No Classes
December 8
Reading Day – No Classes
December 11
Last Day of Classes
December 12-18
Final Exams
December 23
Grades due by 9:00 am
WINTER INTERSESSION 2016
Emergency Alert System
January 4, 2016 through January 15, 2016.
A new Emergency Notification system will
be installed during the Fall of 2015.
Emergencies may include campus-related
immediate health or safety situations and
class or event cancellations.
SPRING SEMESTER 2016
(January 19, 2016 through May 19, 2016)
January 13
New Student Orientation (Evening)
Snow Date: January 14, 2016
January 18
Snowline: 860-738-6464
Martin Luther King Day
COLLEGE CLOSED
Students may call the College directly to
hear a recorded message concerning any
inclement weather closing (see page 43).
PLEASE USE THE SNOWLINE NUMBER.
DO NOT CALL THE SWITCHBOARD FOR
INCLEMENT WEATHER CANCELLATION
INFORMATION.
January 20
Last Day for 100% Tuition Refund
January 21
CLASSES BEGIN
February 3
Last Day to Add/Drop Courses and
Last Day for 50%Tuition Refund
February 12-15
Lincoln’s and Washington’s Birthdays
Observed - No Classes
February 17
Last Day to Change to AUDIT
Tutoring
March 21-27
Spring Break – No Classes
The Academic Success Center (FH 301 &
307) offers free tutoring provided by faculty,
staff, peer, and community volunteers (See
page 14).
March 25-27
Good Friday/Easter – COLLEGE
Parking
CLOSED
To avoid towing charges, be sure to park in
student designated areas: the Art & Science
Center Parking Lot, Green Woods Hall (Lots
C and J), and the Joyner Learning Center
Parking Lot (see page 32 & map on page
35).
3
March 31
GRADUATION APPLICATIONS DUE
April 6
Last Day to Make-up Incompletes
April 13
Last Day to Withdraw from Classes
May 5
Reading Day – No Classes
May 9
Last Day of Classes
May 10-16
Final Exams
May 19
Grades Due by 9:00 am
May 25
Awards Convocation
May 26
COMMENCEMENT
May 30
Memorial Day – COLLEGE CLOSED
WHERE DO I GO?
College Departments and Services
Contact Information
Academic Success Center, FH 302
860-738-6361
 Tutoring
Financial Aid, GW 224
860-738-6326
 Financial Aid
 Scholarship information
 Student Employment
Admissions, GW 219
860-738-6330
Information Center, FH 104 (1st floor)
860-738-6300
 Lost and Found
Bookstore, GW 209
860-379-6226
Library – LRC
860-738-6480
Cashier, GW 205
860-738-6415 or 860-738-6313
 Tuition and fee payments
Registrar, GW 215
860-738-6314
 Address change / Email Change
 Graduation information
 Registration
 Transcripts
Center for Student Development, GW 208
860-738-6420
 Academic Advisement
 Adding/Dropping a Course
 Career Counseling
 Job Search Counseling
 Learning Disabilities
Accommodations
 Transfer Planning
 Veterans/National Guard Benefits
 Withdrawal from Class or College
Snow Line
860-738-6464
 Inclement weather announcements
 Late opening/closing information
Student Activities, GW 110
860-738-6343 or 860-738-6344
 Student Clubs
 Lost and Found
 Student Senate
Computer Center, FX 111
860-738-6367 (Computer Center Help
Desk)
Building Key:
Faculty Offices, FH Annex
860-738-6379 (Faculty Secretary)
 Academic Advisement
 Adding/Dropping Course
 Withdrawal from Class or College
FH
FX
GW
LRC
4
Founders Hall
Founders Hall Annex
Greenwoods Hall
Learning Resource
Center
Building Directory
Regina M. Duffy Administration Building,
22 Park Place East
President
Planning, Research, Institutional
Effectiveness
Marketing, Public Relations
46 Park Place East
Business Office
Human Resources
Payroll Office
56 Park Place East
Center for Workforce Development
State Office for Rural Health
Art & Science Center, 209 Holabird Ave.
Art Studios
Ceramic Studios
Computer Lab
Faculty Offices
General Classrooms
Lecture Hall
Nursing Facilities
Science Labs
Student Lounge
Founders Hall, Park Place East
Academic Success Center
Art Gallery
Auditorium
Classrooms
Collegiate Education for the Deaf and
Hard of Hearing/ Deaf Studies / IPP
Conference Room
Dean of Administration
Dean of Academic and Student Affairs
Faculty Mailboxes
Information Center
Mail Room & Printing
Maintenance
Student Lounge
150 Wetmore Avenue
Non-credit Allied Health
Green Woods Hall, 119 N. Main Street
Admissions
Advisors
Bookstore
Cashier
Center for Student Development
Classrooms
Faculty Offices
Financial Aid
MAC Lab
Multi-Purpose Room
Photography Dark Room and Studio
Registrar and Records Office
Student Activities
Student Lounge
Women’s Resource Center
Founders Hall Annex
Computer Center
Computer Classrooms
Faculty Offices (2nd & 3rd floors)
Robert C. White Studio,
Behind Founders Hall
Veterans’ OASIS Center (Lower Level)
Directions to NCCC
From Waterbury –Take Route 8 North to
Route 44 West and follow the signs to
NCCC.
Learning Resource Center
2 Park Place East
Draper Conference Center (Lower Level)
Library Lab
Library
From Hartford – At the junction of 84 and 91,
take downtown Hartford exit (52) and follow
Route 44 (West) to Winsted (approximately
25 miles from the junction).
Joyner Learning Center,
100 S. Main Street
Classrooms
Faculty Offices
Medical Assisting
Vet Tech Center
The College is at the intersection of Routes
44 and 8 across from the town green.
5
6
7
Founders Hall Annex - Faculty Offices
218
Faculty
Secretary's Office
217
216
215
214
213
212
211
210
FOUNDERS HALL
elev.
Second Floor
208
Mens Room
Ladies Room
207
201
Classroom
Classroom
204
Auditorium
202
Conference
Room
206
Elevator
Mens
Room
Ladies
Room
Classroom
Founders Hall Annex - Faculty Offices
FOUNDERS HALL
318
319
316
317
314
315
312
313
310
311
elev.
309
308
Third Floor
ACADEMIC SUCCESS
CENTER
301
304
AUDITORIUM BALCONY
TUTORING LAB
ACADEMIC
SUCCESS
CENTER
307
ACADEMIC SUCCESS
CENTER
306
Elevator
302
HALLWAY
OFFICES
8
LECTURE
CLASSROOM
Entrance
•
Exit
Entrance • Exit
Ramp
Vet Tech
Lab
Exit
Classroom
129
128
127
LC15
Prep Room
Surgery
Rm
Classroom
FIRST FLOOR
Joyner
Learning Center
Viewing Room
JOYNER
LEARNING
CENTER
Classroom
Dental Room
Handicappedaccessible
chair lift
122
Ladies Room
Maintainance
Mens
Room
LC6
LC2
Lounge
LC4
JOYNER
LEARNING
CENTER
LOWER LEVEL
LC7
LC8
LC9
LC5
LC10
LC14
LC11
Handicappedaccessible
chair lift
9
LC13
LC12
LC15
Vet
Tech
Lab
10
11
12
DIRECTORY OF COLLEGE SERVICES
ACADEMIC ADVISING PROCEDURES
All students admitted as degree or certificate candidates are assigned to an academic advisor.
Advisors are members of the professional staff, usually faculty, whose backgrounds make them
especially suitable to help students make academic and career choices. During the academic
year, the advisor helps the student select appropriate courses, based on the student’s program,
previous records, and placement test scores.
What Are The Responsibilities Of Students?
1. Obtain and read the College catalog either from the web at www.nwcc.edu or hard copy.
2. Matriculate (select a program of study), which includes submitting the application and $20 fee
plus a copy of high school diploma or GED, MMR documentation and college transcripts, if
applicable.
3. Maintain contact with assigned advisor or choose another through the Center for Student
Development.
4. Keep appointments made with advisor or call and reschedule.
5. Use and retain Curriculum Sheet (available in the Center for Student Development, Green
Woods Hall).
6. Bring completed and signed Advisement Form in order to register.
7. Complete all necessary forms for graduation by deadline of the year of graduation (November
20, 2015 for January 2016 or March 31, 2016 for May 2016).
8. Make decisions, with help from advisors and other College resources.
9. Accept responsibility for decisions.
Student Guidelines
1. Students pursuing a degree or certificate program are required to meet with their academic
advisor each semester prior to the registration period. Advisors may be contacted directly
through the phone and e-mail directory on the College’s web site:
http://www.nwcc.commnet.edu/about-nccc/faculty-staff-directory
2. Students will receive an email prior to the next semester’s registration with information on how
to contact the advisor. Students need to make an appointment with their advisor during the
scheduled advisement period which is three weeks before registration begins.
3. Students should consult the Master Advisor List if they are unaware of whom their advisor is.
The list and advisor’s office hours are available in the Center for Student Development in
GW 208, and at the Faculty Secretary’s Office in FX 217.
4. There are two forms that are completed during the advisement process, the Advisement Form
and the Curriculum Sheet.
a. Each semester the Advisement Form is completed with the advisor during an
advisement session. The student must present this signed form in order to register.
b. The Curriculum Sheet lists all the courses required for a particular major. This checklist
serves as the student’s plan of study.
The student’s tentative plan, as shown on their Advisement Form, is indicated on this sheet. All
completed courses are subsequently entered.
Grades can be accessed through the web at www.nwcc.edu. Click on the myCommNet button to
log in. To receive an automated degree audit, click Registration/Schedule Button; then click
Student Degree Evaluation.
Both the student and the advisor should have a copy of the Curriculum Sheet. The student must
submit this sheet completed and signed by the advisor by November 20, 2015 for January 2016
or March 31, 2016 for May 2016, when applying for graduation.
13
5. Students should refer to their copy of the Curriculum Sheet as they plan each semester.
6. Students may request reassignment when a favorable advising relationship is not achieved.
This is done by completing the Change of Advisor Form found in the Student Development
Center in GW 208.
7. Students who are only taking courses on-line may contact their faculty advisor or one of the
advisors in the Center for Student Development via e-mail for general information. A faculty
and staff phone and e-mail directory is available on the College’s web site at:
http://www.nwcc.commnet.edu/about-nccc/faculty-staff-directory
ACADEMIC SUCCESS CENTER: 860-738-6351
Students who come to tutoring get better grades and are more likely to continue their education
than the average NCCC student. If part of your academic goals include earning great grades and
graduating, then tutoring is for you! Our tutoring center features a warm, friendly environment for
you to work on your homework, papers, and projects.
The tutoring center is located in Founders Hall 307. However, you may find our helpful tutors in
your classroom or the Arts and Sciences Building. We offer tutoring in a variety of subjects
including, math, writing, biology (in ASB), and computers literacy. Assistance is given in a drop-in
basis by faculty and staff volunteers, peer and professional tutors. Computer programs such as
Learning Express Library is available to provide online tutorials for professional exams, or
computer proficiency.
Hours are posted on the Academic Success Center bulletin board and throughout campus
bulletin boards. For more information call: 860-738-6351.
ADVISORS: 860-738-6420
You have probably met at least one of the advisors in the Center for Student Development, GW
208, when you registered and planned your first semester of classes. Advisors are available for
academic, course selection, testing, transfer and course withdrawal counseling. The advisors’
offices are located there, as are the Career Resource Center, Transfer Center and Internet
Access. Staff members are available during weekday hours: Monday - Friday from 8:30 a.m. 4:30 p.m.
BOOKSTORE: 860-379-6226
Textbooks and supplies can be obtained in the College Bookstore, located on the second floor of
Green Woods Hall. Bookstore hours are:
Regular hours:
Monday-Thursday: 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Friday: 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Hours may vary during holidays and winter intersession. Please contact the bookstore for hours
during these times.
BUILDING CODES
ON CAMPUS CODES
ASB
Art & Science Building
CGOUL
56 Park Place
FH
Founders Hall
FH AUD
Founders Hall Auditorium
FX
Founders Hall Annex
JLC
Joyner Learning Center (Vet Tech / Medical Assisting Building)
LRC
Learning Resource Center (Library)
WETM
150 Wetmore Avenue (Non-credit Allied Health)
WS
White Studio (Veterans’ OASIS)
14
OFF CAMPUS CODES
ASD
American School for the Deaf, West Hartford
OWTS
Oliver Wolcott Technical School, Torrington
REG7
Regional 7 High School, Winsted
TORHS
Torrington High School, Torrington
CAREER COUNSELING: 860-738-6420
An advisor in the Center for Student Development counsels individuals on clarifying values,
exploring interests, measuring personal preferences, setting career goals and selecting and
pursuing training to achieve career goals. The Strong Interest Inventory and the Myers-Briggs
Type Indicator are used for measuring individual interest and personal preferences. Job search
counseling is also available. Computer access to the Connecticut Department of Labor via the
Internet provides current job opening information.
COLLEGIATE EDUCATION FOR THE DEAF AND HARD OF HEARING PROGRAM:
860-738-6382 or 860-738-6397
NCCC offers support services and courses for students who are deaf and/or hard of hearing. The
Collegiate Education for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Program (CEDHH) assures that deaf and hard
of hearing students have full access to Northwestern’s academic offerings by providing a
comprehensive array of support services, including but not limited to: academic tutoring,
academic advisement, placement testing, sign language or oral interpreting, note taking,
counseling and specialized developmental and remedial courses. Interpreters will become a
familiar sight to you in your classrooms and at most college functions and meetings. Student
note takers are also hired; this provides an excellent opportunity for hearing students to earn
money while attending classes.
Videophone booths are available for use in the lobby of Green Woods Hall near the Multi-purpose
Room and in the CEDHH Office, FH 102. The videophone allows Deaf/HOH individuals to speak
directly to others or by use of a qualified trained interpreter, through Video Relay Service (VRS).
Video Relay Service (VRS) is a phone service involving a D-link, a television, and high speed
internet access. VRS works through the following process: a person signs in American Sign
Language (ASL) to the videophone and the visual picture screen is transmitted by a high speed
internet connection to VRS remote sites. An interpreter then voices the ASL into spoken English
via a telephone line to the hearing person. The interpreter then signs the hearing person’s spoken
English reply to the videophone, which sends the visual signal back to the ASL user’s television
monitor.
CEDHH main offices are located in FH 102. In addition to CEDHH staff, a number of faculty,
professional and classified staff members have sign language skills and can assist students.
Interpreters for any college function or meeting may be requested by contacting the Interpreter
Coordinator at 860-738-6382.
COLLEGE CATALOG
Catalogs are available to all students. It is also available on the College website. This handbook
is not an attempt to duplicate that publication. All students are encouraged to familiarize
themselves with the College catalog. The first section reviews admission and registration
procedures, academic requirements, transfer procedures, various College services and the
history and organization of the College. Each student should pay attention to the requirements of
the curricular program in which he/she is registering.
The College reserves the right to withdraw courses and programs in which there is insufficient
enrollment. All fees are subject to change without notice.
15
COMPUTER CENTER: 860-738-6367
The Computer Center is located in the Founders Hall Annex, where it maintains computer
classrooms FX 010, FX 011, FX108, FX110, and FX 112. The Computer Center also maintains
an open lab located in the Founder’s Hall Annex 111 (FX 111).
All computer workstations are connected to the campus network and to the Internet. To log on to
a campus computer, you will have to know your NetID and password.
Your NetID is your student #@student.commnet.edu (ex. 12345678@student.commnet.edu)
The following 3 items make up your initial password:
The first 3 characters of your birth month with the 1st letter capitalized
The & symbol
The last 4 digits of your SSN
(ex. Oct&1234)
Once you have logged on successfully, you will be prompted to change your password.
Connecticut State Colleges and Universities (CSCU) Internet Wireless Setup Outline
The CT Board of Regents for Higher Education approved the Acceptable and Responsible Use
of Information Technology and Resources Policy on October 18th, 2012
(http://www.ct.edu/images/uploads/BOR-Minutes-10-18-2012.pdf). This policy governs the use of
all IT resources including the wired and wireless networks and anyone who uses those resources.
The act of connecting to and using the IT resources on campus, including the wired and/or
wireless networks, indicates approval, acceptance and compliance with the Acceptable and
Responsible Use of Information Technology and Resources Policy. The approved version of this
policy is posted in common areas on campus.
SECURITY: Please be aware that this network is for use by multiple users and is not designed to
prevent all possible types of attacks. By using this network, you assume any risk associated with
that use. Neither NCCC nor the BOR is responsible for your device or any damage that may
happen while connected to the network.
How to connect:
If you have a Windows device, you’ll see the ConnSCU Internet SSID available in your Wi-Fi
Networks – hit Connect, put in your full NETID (ie: 01234567@student.commnet.edu) and
password, hit OK, accept the certificate and you’re done!
If you have an Apple IOS device, go into Settings, select Wi-Fi, select ConnSCU Internet from
the available networks, put in your full NETID (ie: 01234567@student.commnet.edu) and
password, accept the certificate and you’re done!
All other devices operate similarly – use your full NETID and password to log into the ConnSCU
Internet.
At this time, the computer center supports the Wi-Fi use of the following types of devices:
 Windows XP Professional SP3
 Windows Vista
 Windows 7
 Windows 8
 Apple IOS devices (iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch) with IOS version 4 and up.
 Most Android devices
 Most Kindle devices
16
Whatever operating system you’re using, your wireless NIC and software must support WPA2
and 802.1X (PEAP)
If you have trouble connecting with these devices, please call the Helpdesk at 860-738-6367 or
visit Founders Annex room 111 and speak to a technician there.
COURSE SUBSTITUTION
Under special circumstances, a student may substitute another course for a specific course
requirement. Approval for substitution must be obtained from the instructor, forwarded to the
Division Director and the Dean of Academic and Student Affairs. Forms are available in the Office
of the Dean of Academic and Student Affairs (FH 103), the Information Center (FH 104), the
Faculty Secretary’s Office (FX 217), the Center for Student Development (GW 208), and the
Registrar’s Office (GW 215).
FACULTY OFFICE HOURS: 860-738-6379 and 860-738-6300
For office hours and office locations, see the course overview, the faculty secretary (FX 217) or
the Information Center (FH 104).
FINANCIAL AID AND STUDENT CAMPUS EMPLOYMENT: 860-738-6326
The College receives grant, loan and work-study funds from the State of Connecticut and the
U.S. Department of Education to award to eligible students. Any student seeking a degree or
eligible credit certificate program from the College is encouraged to apply. To apply for financial
aid from NCCC you must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
You will need to visit FAFSA on the Web at www.fafsa.ed.gov for the application.
While there are various eligibility requirements for the grant, loan and work study programs, all
matriculated students will be considered for a grant award to assist with the direct costs of college
(tuition, fees, textbooks and supplies). These grant awards may equal up to $5,775 for eligible full
time students attending the fall and spring semesters or an amount determined by the student’s
demonstrated financial need, if that is less. Note that all campus administered grants require
bona fide residency in the state of Connecticut for twelve (12) months prior to attending NCCC.
The Financial Aid Office is a resource center for information regarding student financial aid
programs, scholarships (see page 21), and campus jobs. The office is located in GW 224. We are
also on the Web at: http://www.nwcc.edu or e-mail at: NW-FinAid@nwcc.edu.
A number of employment opportunities are available to students. Students are employed by the
college to work part time throughout the school year. All job applicants must apply for financial
aid. Campus jobs are limited to financial aid recipients. Positions are available in college offices,
the Library, Labs (science, computer, veterinary technology, graphics, photography) and Campus
Maintenance. For a Student Employment Application and tax withholding forms, contact the
Financial Aid Office at 860-738–6326. For the 2015-2016 school year students will be paid $9.60
per hour.
Need to monitor the status of your FAFSA? Need to see if you have any outstanding
requirements? Need to see if you have been awarded any financial aid? Go to:
http://my.commnet.edu
In the area of the College’s Student Information System called STUDENT SELF-SERVICE, you
can determine if your FAFSA has been received by the Financial Aid Office, determine if you
have been awarded any financial aid, and learn if you have any requirements to submit income
documents or verification forms.
By using the my.CommNet portal, you can enter the STUDENT SELF-SERVICE area to monitor
the status of your FAFSA and view any financial aid offered. You can also view your tuition
17
account summary to monitor the crediting of anticipated aid to your tuition and fee charges each
semester. If you have more aid than your tuition/fees (called a credit balance), you may charge
books in the College Bookstore.
SATISFACTORY ACADEMIC PROGRESS FOR FINANCIAL AID
All students who receive financial aid are subject to the following rules and regulations in order to
continue to receive payment of their financial aid. All financial aid applicants are reviewed to
determine whether or not the applicant has successfully completed 66.66% of all credits
attempted, and earned an inclusive cumulative grade point average which falls within a specific
standard based on total credits attempted, and that the total credits attempted do not exceed
150% of the credits required for completion of the degree or certificate program.
What happens if I drop a class during the “add/drop” period allowed for registration?
Generally, nothing punitive happens. Keep in mind that all financial aid awarded is based on fulltime attendance (12 credits or more). Therefore, if you drop a 3 credit class, you will be reducing
your payment of financial aid to ¾ time status (9-11 credits), or ½ time status (6-8 credits).
What happens if I withdraw from all of my classes after the “add/drop” period allowed for
registration?
Be careful, doing this could result in your not receiving actual payment of the scheduled financial
aid; therefore, you would owe the College for that portion of tuition/fees not paid by your financial
aid. In addition, if the financial aid was already paid to you, you would probably owe a “Refund of
Title IV Funds” directly to the U.S. Department of Education. Owing such a refund disqualifies
you from receiving any Federal Student aid payment until the debt is fully paid.
What happens if I withdraw from a class during the semester – will it affect my ability to
receive financial aid?
Withdrawing from a class is just as serious as failing a class. In either instance, you are still held
to the same standard of satisfactory academic progress in that you must still complete at least
66.66% of all credits attempted. However, a failing grade will be calculated in your cumulative
grade point average. Be careful in your planning, and don’t drop a class without first speaking to
an academic counselor. Plan carefully, and follow a good academic plan in which you regularly
attend all classes. If you need help, don’t delay, speak to both your instructor and your
counselor! Consult with staff at the Academic Success Center in Founders Hall for free tutoring.
What happens if I receive a letter that says I have been assigned to “Financial Aid
Warning”?
The letter clearly tells you that you can continue to receive payment of financial aid for one
semester. It also advises you what percentage of courses attempted you have completed, and
states your computed Inclusive Grade Point Average. The letter also advises you that you must
achieve the standards listed below after a one-time semester warning.
The College’s official policy for measuring satisfactory academic progress for Financial Aid
applicants follows. Please familiarize yourself with this important policy.
SATISFACTORY ACADEMIC PROGRESS POLICY
FOR STUDENT FINANCIAL AID RECIPIENTS
PREFACE
In March 2005 the CT Community Colleges approved a uniform academic progress standard for
all students receiving student financial aid. Recent changes in federal regulations announced in
October 2010 have required that the policy be updated and revised to become effective with the
Fall 2011 period of enrollment.
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POLICY
A student receiving Federal Title IV financial aid or other financial aid directly administered or
certified by the College must maintain satisfactory academic progress towards the completion of
a certificate or degree program of study. Satisfactory academic progress for financial aid
recipients is measured by using a quantitative and qualitative standard and is an assessment of a
student’s cumulative academic record at the college.
A student must complete successfully two-thirds (66.66%) of the credits (earned
credits/attempted credits) s/he attempts. All attempted credits resulting in either an academic
grade or administrative transcript notation will be included in the quantitative calculation.
Incomplete courses, course withdrawals, course repetitions, and noncredit remedial courses (with
appropriate credit equivalency evaluation), and ESL courses will be included in this assessment.
Transfer credits will be counted as attempted and earned credits in the calculation for determining
satisfactory academic progress.
A student must also maintain a cumulative minimum grade point average (qualitative
standard) as noted below to be making satisfactory academic progress and be eligible to
receive financial aid.
Earned Credits
Minimum *Inclusive GPA
< 15.99
1.50
> 16.00
2.00
A student's cumulative academic history will be evaluated at the end of each enrollment period
and prior to the subsequent term’s financial aid disbursement. This policy will be used to evaluate
all students, regardless of their enrollment level.
Repeated/Audit Coursework
Financial aid recipients are limited to one repetition of a previously passed course in their
program of study. A second repetition of a previously passed course will not be eligible for
financial aid payment. Audit courses are not financial aid eligible.
Maximum Credit Hours
A student may receive student financial aid for any attempted credits in his/her program of study
that do not exceed 150% of the published length of the student’s educational program at the
College. For example, a student enrolled in a 60-credit degree program may receive financial aid
for a maximum of 90 attempted credit hours. Similarly, a student enrolled in a 30-credit certificate
program may receive financial aid for a maximum of 45 attempted credit hours. Any attempted
credits at the College must be included in the calculation. This 150% maximum credit hours rule
is applicable to students who change majors or who pursue a double major.
Financial Aid Warning
Any student who fails to meet the minimum satisfactory academic progress standard will be
placed on Financial Aid Warning. The Warning period will be the student's next semester or
period of enrollment at the College. The College will communicate the Warning status to the
student and inform the student that s/he must meet the academic progress standard by the end of
the subsequent enrollment period in order to maintain eligibility to participate in the financial aid
program at the College.
Termination
Any student who fails to meet the minimum satisfactory academic progress standard at the end of
the Warning period will become ineligible for the financial aid programs at the College.
Reinstatement Policy
A student's financial aid eligibility will be automatically reinstated at such time as the student
meets the minimum satisfactory academic progress standard. Reinstatement to the financial aid
programs may also occur upon a successful appeal by the student. (See Appeal Process below)
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Financial Aid Probation
Any student who fails to meet the minimum satisfactory academic progress standard at the end of
the Warning period will become ineligible for the financial aid programs at the College. Ineligible
students have the opportunity to file an appeal regarding their termination from the financial aid
programs. Students that have failed the academic progress standard and have been approved
with a successful appeal will be considered on Financial Aid Probation.
Appeal Process
A student may request consideration for reinstatement to the financial aid programs through the
following Appeal Process:
If the student feels his/her failure to meet the minimum satisfactory academic progress standard
was the result of an unusual or extraordinary situation that affected successful progress, the
student may appeal to the Financial Aid Office. Some personal mitigating circumstances could
include illness or injury of the student or dependent of the student; a death in the immediate
family; or other undue hardship as the result of special circumstances. An appeal form is
available in the Financial Aid Office and must be submitted with acceptable documentation by the
prescribed dates listed on each semester’s academic progress notice. Late or undocumented
appeals will not be accepted.
ID CARDS: 860-738-6480
Your photo ID provides access to services on campus. Your ID number is required to register for
classes. You must present your NCCC photo ID to the Library to receive Library privileges. A
bar code will be affixed on the back of your ID at the Library. Your NCCC photo student ID is valid
for two years at which time if you are still a student with us, you may request a new one. For more
information or to obtain your NCCC photo ID, contact the Library in the Learning Resource
Center. A copy of your current registration form and a valid photo identification are required. IDs
may be obtained during regular Library hours.
INFORMATION CENTER: 860-738-6300
The Information Center is located on the first floor of Founders Hall (FH 104). During the
academic year the hours are 9:30 a.m. – 6:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 8:00 a.m. –
5:00 p.m. Friday. Here you will find the College’s main switchboard as well as the central location
for all student and general public information.
LIBRARY / LEARNING RESOURCE CENTER: 860-738-6480
nw-librequests@nwcc.edu
http://nwcc.edu/current-students/library
The Library, located in the Learning Resource Center adjacent to Founders Hall, is home to
approximately 35,000 books and 88 periodical titles. Additionally, the Library provides access to
approximately 143,000 ebooks and thousands of online journal and magazine articles. The
Library also houses extensive collections of compact discs, videos, DVDs, and audio books, and
serves as a regional depository for Connecticut State Government Documents. It participates in
both regional and national automated networks that provide circulation, interlibrary loan, and
cataloging services and the online public access catalog. Full access is given to the shelves, and
every effort is made to make the Library a pleasant place in which to study and do research.
Additionally, students gain off-campus access to the Library’s catalog, ebooks, and electronic
databases through myCommnet. The Library email address may be used to renew books and
ask for reference assistance.
In addition to our library research materials, the Library provides students access to the
technology necessary for serious research. Thirty-two computers are available for student
use. Six C-Pods allow small groups of students to research and to prepare projects and
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presentations; the C-Pods include a fully-loaded computer with a 42-inch plasma television as
monitor and multiple keyboards. Wi-Fi is available throughout the Library to NCCC
students. Finally, the Library Lab with twenty computers provides students access to a quiet
research space and also supports classes as a private instruction classroom.
The Library staff will be happy to request from other libraries books and periodical articles not
found at NCCC. Requests are limited to six per project, and materials usually arrive within two
weeks. Plan ahead in order to have ample time to receive and use interlibrary loan materials.
On your first visit to the Library, fill out a borrower registration form and receive a barcode on your
student ID. You may obtain a student ID at the library Front Desk. Books, compact discs, and
audio books may be checked out for three weeks and renewed twice if no one else has requested
them. Videos and DVDs may be checked out for seven days, and periodicals and reference
books do not circulate.
The Library is the place to search for information. If you visit the Library and cannot find what
you’re looking for, ask a librarian!
During the academic year the Library hours are:
Monday – Thursday
8:30 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Friday
8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
During winter and spring breaks:
Monday – Friday
8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
LOST AND FOUND: 860-738-6343
Lost and found services are maintained in the Information Center (FH 104) and the Student
Activities Office (GW 110). As a convenience, articles found in the Library may be left at the
Library’s main desk. Positive ID is required when collecting your lost item.
MENTAL HEALTH CONCERNS: 860-738-6420
Students with serious personal problems are referred to professionally staffed community
agencies. Students may discuss a referral with any of the advisors in the Center for Student
Development, GW 208, or directly contact the Northwest Center for Family Services and Mental
Health, 860-482-8561; the Charlotte Hungerford Outpatient Psychiatric Clinic in Torrington,
860-496-6350; or Northwest Connecticut Counseling Service, 860-677-0845.
RESTROOMS
Restrooms for men and women are located at opposite ends of the 1st and 2nd floors of Founders
Hall; on the lower level of Green Woods Hall; on the lower level of the Joyner Learning Center; in
the lower lobby of the Learning Resource Center; and on all three levels of the Art & Science
Center. All are handicapped accessible.
SCHOLARSHIP INFORMATION
Northwestern has a large number of scholarship opportunities available for new, continuing and
graduating students. These scholarships are awarded to students based on academic merit,
demonstrated financial need and/or enrollment in a specific academic program at Northwestern.
For more information go to the College website at www.nwcc.edu, click on Financial Aid and
then Scholarships.
STUDENT ACTIVITIES OFFICE: 860-738-6344
Reception Desk: 860-738-6343
The Student Activities Office is located on the lower level of Green Woods Hall (GW 110). This
office promotes student-sponsored educational, cultural, social and recreational programs
through clubs and the Student Senate. Information regarding student events as well as inquiries
about clubs and organizations can be obtained here. The office is also responsible for a variety of
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student services such as a lost and found, event ticket sales and area maps. The Student Senate
works closely with this office in the budgeting of the Student Activity Fund. The regular meetings
of the Senate are held weekly in this office. The Student Activities Office publishes the
information regarding student events on the NEWS and EVENTS Calendars and in the weekly
newsletter, Campus Voice. Both can also be found on the College website by clicking on the
appropriate links on the home page. Event announcements and submissions on topics of interest
to students are welcome through the Student Activities Office, GW 110, 860-738-6343, or email
Susan Widmer at swidmer@nwcc.edu
STUDENT RECORDS
(See the College catalog)
(See the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) on page 61)
TRANSCRIPT REQUEST: 860-738-6314
Transcripts are produced in electronic format (eTranscript) or in paper format and can be
requested on the web at http://my.commnet.edu or via written request containing your name,
student ID number (if known), date of birth, social security number, and name and address of the
institution to which we will send your transcript. Electronic transcripts are typically delivered
within 24 hours. Please allow 7-10 days for the processing of paper transcripts. There is no fee
for official transcripts. For information on how to request a transcript, please go to
http://my.commnet.edu and log in; then click on Student Records and Transcript.
TRANSFER PLANNING: 860-738-6420
Students seeking to transfer to another college or university are encouraged to plan ahead. The
following transfer information is available: four-year college catalogs and reference guides,
transferability of courses to certain Connecticut schools, and evaluation of remaining credits. All
students considering transferring should contact Dr. Ruth Gonzalez at 860-738-6315, or call the
Center for Student Development at 860-738-6420.
Northwestern has early admissions transfer agreements with the State Universities (Central,
Southern, Eastern and Western) and the University of Connecticut. The State University Dual
Admissions agreement requires a student to apply before they finish 15 transferrable credits and
to receive their Associate degree before transferring. The UConn Guaranteed Admissions
program requires a student to apply before they finish 16 transferrable credits, to receive their
Associate degree with a 3.0 average before transferring, and applies to the Colleges of Liberal
Arts and Science and Agriculture and Natural Resources and the School of Business
only. Applications for both programs can be obtained from Dr. Ruth Gonzalez, GW 208, 860-7386315.
VETERANS: 860-738-6315 or 860-738-6420
All Veterans, Reservists, or National Guard members who plan to use benefits provided by public
law, or who want information regarding Veterans Administration (VA) benefits, should see
Dr. Ruth Gonzalez at the Center for Student Development, GW 208. If a Veteran, Reservist or
Guard member is receiving educational benefits, NCCC must keep adequate records to show
his/her progress, including attendance reports and periodic grades. Failure to make satisfactory
progress may result in educational benefits being discontinued. It is the student’s responsibility to
secure signed attendance sheets and to deliver them to Dr. Gonzalez by the deadline noted. If
the Veteran discontinues attendance, reduces his/her credit load, withdraws from a course or
withdraws from the college, he/she must inform Dr. Gonzalez immediately.
A waiver of general fund tuition is extended to all eligible Connecticut Veterans with service
during certain wartime periods. Members of the Connecticut National Guard may also be eligible
for waivers of tuition. For details, contact Dr. Gonzalez, GW 208.
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The Veterans’ OASIS, a drop in center for NCCC veterans, opened in 2009 in the Robert C.
White Studio behind Founders Hall. The OASIS is open to veterans on days and evenings during
the week. For more info contact Dr. Ruth Gonzalez, GW 208, 860-738-6315,
rgonzalez@nwcc.edu
WORKFORCE INVESTMENT ACT (WIA): 860-738-6315
Dr. Ruth Gonzalez, GW 208, serves as NCCC’s liaison for the Workforce Investment Act.
Students requiring assistance with advising and/or completion of WIA forms should contact
Dr. Gonzalez.
STUDENT INVOLVEMENT
ACTIVITIES: 860-738-6343
The co-curricular activities program through the Office of Student Activities is an integral part of a
student’s learning experience and is designed to enrich college life. Multiple opportunities for
student involvement and development include student governance, clubs and organizations,
college-wide committees and leadership training. The Student Senate sponsors a variety of
social, cultural and recreational activities as well as community service opportunities. Student
events, programs and information are posted in The Campus Voice newsletter and the NEWS
and EVENTS calendars which can be found on the College home page: www.nwcc.edu; and on
bulletin boards throughout the campus. Submissions for topics of interest to students are
welcome through the Student Activities Office, GW 110, 860-738-6343, or email Susan Widmer
at: swidmer@nwcc.edu. Tickets, when required, are distributed or sold during the day in the
Student Activities Office.
ATHLETICS, FITNESS AND WELLNESS
In response to expressed student interest, the College provides a growing list of opportunities for
sport and fitness programs for men and women. NCCC does not participate in intercollegiate
sports but the College does support opportunities, as available, for women, men and co-ed
participation.
The College currently provides:
Open Gym – Activities such as basketball, volleyball, dodge ball and ping pong are available in
the GW multi-purpose room. Check with the Student Activities Office for a schedule.
Ballroom Dance classes – Classes usually meet twice a month in the evening in GW 128.
Check with the Student Activities Office for a schedule of dates and times.
Men’s Basketball – The Student Senate sponsors student teams in the Winsted City League for
14 weeks starting in January. Games are held on Sundays at Pearson School. Contact the
Student Activities Office in November for more information.
Other Opportunities – are available with enough student interest. If you have an idea for a
program, contact Student Activities.
These activities are funded entirely or in part by the Student Activity Fund. Some programs may
require a nominal fee. For more information, or to register, contact the Office of Student Activities,
GW110, 860-738-6343.
CAMPUS NEWSLETTER and CAMPUS NEWS and EVENTS CALENDARS
The College newsletter, the Campus Voice is available online each week. The Campus Voice
newsletter contains student information such as student events, career information, job listings,
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transfer information, college open houses, scholarship information, academic dates and
deadlines, club activities, etc. A link to the Campus Voice can be found on the College home
page at: http://www.nwcc.edu.
In conjunction with the Campus Voice, the NEWS and EVENTS calendars are an online posting
of College sponsored student activities, events and important dates. Students are strongly
encouraged to check this calendar for regular updates of important information and interesting
activities. A link to these calendars be found on the College home page at: http://www.nwcc.edu.
Submissions of topics and events of interest to students, for the Campus Voice and the NEWS
and EVENTS calendars are welcome through the Student Activities Office, GW 110,
860-738-6343, or email Susan Widmer at swidmer@nwcc.edu.
Suggestions for activities and community service projects are always welcome. Contact the
Student Activities Office in Green Woods Hall, GW 110, 860-738-6344 or 6343.
CLUBS AND STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS
We hope your time at NCCC will be enjoyable as well as an educational experience. Everyone
has a “niche” to fill and we hope the following information will help you find yours. GET
INVOLVED! NCCC has a variety of clubs and activities to meet the diverse needs and interests of
our student population. All clubs welcome new members. Below you will find a brief description of
the clubs that are currently active. For more information contact the Student Activities Office at
860-738-6343.
NCCC students have the opportunity to join any of the following campus organizations:
Christian Students Association: “The Outlet” promotes efforts to meet the needs of
the community, including college students, to further individual spiritual growth by offering
opportunities for fellowship through Bible studies and various events. It encourages
students in their spiritual walk by drawing closer to Christ in their words and deeds.
Advisor: Paul Atkinson, 860-738-6388, patkinson@nwcc.edu.
Creative Collective creates the appreciation and practice of all forms of art in our own
membership and the surrounding communities. This is accomplished by promoting
collaboration between diverse types of art to enrich our artistic foundations; furthering
interests and activities in the surrounding community; and encouraging relationships
between artists for present and future opportunities. Advisors: Janet Nesteruk &
Michael Yurgeles, 860-738-6384, jnesteruk@nwcc.edu .
Criminal Justice Association promotes the Criminal Justice Program at NCCC through
speakers, programs and scholarship. Advisor: contact Michael Emanuel, Jr. at
memanuel@nwcc.edu or 860-738-6389.
CAVT (Connecticut Association of Veterinary Technicians) promotes educational
and social activities for Veterinary Technology students. It furthers their knowledge and
involvement with animals within our community and beyond. It encourages continuing
education after graduation and involvement in professional organizations. Advisor:
Susan Engwall, 860-738-6485, sengwall@nwcc.edu .
Dungeons and Dragons – The purpose of this club is to promote the wellbeing of our
members and use role-playing as a healthy emotional outlet; to further members’
understanding of themselves and others through the use of role-playing; and to
encourage members to express themselves and to learn through the act of role-playing.
Advisor: Doug Mooney, 860-738-6401, dmooney@nwcc.edu
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Early Childhood Education Association promotes the well-being of the children and
families through activities, meetings and fund-raising to benefit and build connections
between the College students, children, families and the surrounding
community. Advisor: Michele Better, 860-738-6305, mbetter@nwcc.edu.
History Association promotes an appreciation of the historical past through shared
discovery. It furthers historical knowledge and advances critical thought. Advisor:
Todd Bryda, 860-738-6302, tbryda@nwcc.edu.
Health Professions Club provides meetings and social gatherings to bring together
those people interested in health and health-related careers. It educates students, faculty
and the general public on pertinent aspects of good health and disease prevention. This
club promotes better health habits throughout the community and raises money to be
added to the general scholarship fund in the club’s name. Advisor: Jane O’Grady,
860-738-6393, jogrady@nwcc.edu.
Journalism Club strives to promote free thinking, writing and campus unity; to provide
information throughout campus; and to encourage campus participation and writing.
Publications appear as inserts in the Campus Voice and on their website, Gloss:, found
as a link on the College website. Advisor: Seth Kershner, 860-738-6481,
skershner@nwcc.edu
Men in Nursing – The mission of this student organization is to foster nursing education,
facilitate unity among our future colleagues, classmates and leaders in nursing. We
strive to encourage men to consider nursing as a career. Advisor: Pam Rose,
860-738-6377, drose@nwcc.edu
Northwest Deaf Club brings together deaf and hard of hearing students and students of
American Sign Language for cultural, social and recreational activities. It promotes
overall development of deaf and hard of hearing students. It develops knowledge and
skill in parliamentary procedures and experience in group decision making. Advisor:
Maureen Chalmers. 860-738-6396, mchalmers@nwcc.edu.
NCCC Student Nurses Association – promotes accountable, compassionate and
skilled graduates that can continually advance the art and science of the nursing
profession. Advisors: Jayne Mednick, 860-738-6421, jmednick@nwcc.edu and
Erica Mumm, 860-738-6337, emumm@nwcc.edu .
Phi Theta Kappa/Alpha Nu Epsilon – Phi Theta Kappa, established in 1918, is a
national honor society for two-year colleges. The purpose is to recognize and encourage
scholarship among its students. NCCC started a Phi Theta Kappa chapter, Alpha Nu
Epsilon, in the spring of 1987. Membership is extended by invitation. To be considered, a
student must: 1) be enrolled in an Associate Degree Program; 2) have accumulated 12
credits in course work leading to that degree; 3) have a 3.45 grade point average; and 4)
be of good moral character and possess recognized qualities of citizenship. To achieve
its mission, Phi Theta Kappa shall provide opportunities for the development of
leadership and service, for an intellectual climate for the exchange of ideas and ideals,
for lively fellowship for scholars and for stimulation of interest in continuing academic
excellence. Advisors: Crystal Wiggins, 860-738-6310, cwiggins@nwcc.edu and
Todd Bryda, 860-738-6302, tbryda@nwcc.edu.
Respect Equality Alliance for Liberation (REAL Club) strives to strengthen and
sustain a welcoming and inclusive community for all NCCC students and provide
resources on LGBTQIA. Their purpose is to promote an open and welcoming,
comfortable environment for all students; to further education awareness and
25
understanding among students; and to encourage acceptance and open-mindedness
through the student body. Contact Student Activities for more information.
Spanish Club - The purpose of the club is to educate the College and community about
Latin Culture, to participate in cultural activities and to promote community service.
Advisor: Jessica Treat, 860-738-6340, jtreat@nwcc.edu.
Student Senate - The Senate serves as the governing body representing NCCC
students for the purpose of promoting the general welfare of the student body, to
stimulate interest in activities contributing to our improvement, and to provide every
student with experience in democratic government (see Student Senate on page
27). Advisor: Kathy Chapman, 860-738-6344, kchapman@nwcc.edu.
The Writers Club’s mission is to promote the boundless horizons of creativity, while
encouraging personal and collective creative growth. This is an open ended club where
members have fun and enjoy each other’s writing by sharing personal works as well as
those of famous writers and favorite authors and poets. Advisor: Jessica Treat, 860738-6430, jtreat@nwcc.edu
Several clubs that have previously existed on campus but are presently inactive can be
reactivated by interested students. They are as follows: Accounting Club, Climbing Club,
Computer Club, Fine Art Society, Literary Club, Northwest Educators Club, Outreach,
Outdoor Skills Club, Peace Club, Recreation Club, Theatre Group, Video and Animation
Society, and Women’s Club. For more information about these organizations, or to start a new
organization, please contact the Student Activities Office at GW110, 860-738-6344, or email
Kathy Chapman at kchapman@nwcc.edu.
COMMUNITY SERVICE
NCCC encourages students to integrate academic achievement with community involvement.
Everyone wins with community service. Community service enables agencies to provide
necessary services to our neighbors in need, as well as meeting personal and career goals for
the volunteer. Many four-year colleges will look for community service on transfer applications.
Some schools require it as part of their degree programs, and employers, particularly large
corporations, will expect community service to appear on job applications.
Make a difference! Many of our students have. Several individuals as well as student groups
have been recognized with the CT Higher Education Community Service Award for their
contributions. For more information or to make suggestions for community service projects,
contact the Student Activities Office in GW 110 or call 860-738-6344.
SCHEDULING AND SUPERVISION OF CAMPUS EVENTS
NCCC students in sanctioned clubs and organizations are free to invite and hear persons of their
own choosing. Guest speakers, performers and activities must be authorized. Routine procedures
required by the College before speakers, performers, etc. are invited to the campus are designed
only to ensure that there is an orderly scheduling of facilities and adequate preparation for the
event and that the occasion is conducted in a manner appropriate to the academic community.
These student events must be registered with the Student Activities Office as soon as possible
and no later than two (2) weeks before the event. All student events must have an advisor or
College employee from the professional staff available throughout the event.
STUDENT REPRESENTATION ON COLLEGE PROFESSIONAL COMMITTEES
Students enrolled in credit classes in the current academic year are eligible to run as Student
Representatives on the College professional committees listed below. Elections will be
determined by the Student Senate. For more information, or to be placed on the ballot, contact
Student Activities at 860-738-6344, GW 110, or via email to the Student Senate Advisor at
26
kchapman@nwcc.edu. Seats that become vacant during the year are filled by a majority vote of
the committee membership. No student may serve on more than two Committees concurrently.
Commencement Committee: Plans and coordinates commencement. (Two student
seats)
Community Service Awards: Meets in February and March to select nominees for the
Department of Higher Education Community Service Awards and the recipients of the
College’s Community Service Awards. (One student seat)
Cultural Planning Committee: Suggests programs designed to enrich cultural life at the
college. (Two student seats)
Budget and Facilities Committee: Meets quarterly to address construction, space
issues and the physical make-up of the College as well as any health and safety issues,
including traffic and drug and alcohol issues. (Two student seats)
Library Advisory Committee: Advises the library regarding budget, services, and
resources, and acts as an information resource and advocate for library concerns. (Two
student seats)
Northwestern Community College Foundation (NCCF): Raises funds through
communication and interaction with the community for charitable education, scientific or
literary purposes to benefit NCCC, especially for the fulfillment of the College’s most
critical needs, which cannot be funded through normal channels. (One student seat)
Orientation Committee: Plans and organizes an orientation program for new and
transfer students. (One student seat)
Professional Senate: (One student seat selected by the Student Senate)
STUDENT SENATE
The Student Senate is the governing body representing all students registered for credit courses.
It works to maintain high morale within the student body and a close spirit of cooperation among
the students, faculty, and staff. Student interests are represented under the constitution of the
Northwestern Connecticut Community College Student Senate.
The Student Senate is responsible for the development and support of extracurricular programs
from the revenue of the student activity fee. The Senate charters student clubs and organizations
and allocates funds to them for their activities. In its capacity as the official representative body
for students, the Student Senate has the authority to consult with and make recommendations to
the faculty and administration regarding matters affecting student welfare.
The Student Senate is composed of nineteen members, four Senators from the Freshman Class,
four Senators from the Sophomore Class, six at-large seats, and five Officers. Elections for
Senators are held in the spring semester by April 15 and again in the fall semester by the fourth
week of classes. Elections for Senate Officers are held during the spring elections. Any new
student who is registered for credits at NCCC is eligible to run for the Senate. Senators must
maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 to retain their seat on the Student Senate.
The Senate meetings are held weekly and are open to all registered students. Election and
meeting announcements are posted in the campus newsletter, the Campus Voice and the NEWS
and EVENTS calendars on the College homepage. Students are encouraged to become involved
in this vital link between the student body and the College community. Also see the NCCC
Student Senate Constitution starting on page 64.
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WOMEN’S RESOURCE CENTER
The Women’s Resource Center is located at Green Woods Hall in room 313. The Center offers
informational materials, small group discussions, and programs on women’s concerns and
issues. It is a comfortable place for meetings, workshops, exhibits and socialization. Find us
online at https://nwcc.digication.com/WRC/Home. For more information please contact Sue Berg,
860-738-6342, sberg@nwcc.edu. All are welcome.
POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
ABSENCES
Classroom attendance is an integral part of the college experience. College faculty believes that
regular class attendance is necessary for a student to derive the maximum benefit from the
learning experience and the overall value of classroom instruction. Every faculty member
distributes to each student in his/her courses, during the first week of classes, a course outline or
overview including information about attendance requirements and an indication of evaluative and
grading policies. Attendance may be recorded by instructors.
Veterans receiving educational benefits are required to attend classes on a regular basis,
regardless of the attendance policy of the instructor. Attendance reports are sent to the advisor
responsible for veterans’ affairs who then notifies the Veterans Administration if a veteran’s
record shows poor attendance or lack of attendance. Veterans’ benefits are reduced or
terminated because of excessive absences (see VETERANS on page 22).
Students receiving financial aid are expected to attend classes on a regular basis or fully comply
with the instructor’s attendance policy. Students who fail to attend regularly or stop attending may
lose eligibility for their financial aid award. See SATISFACTORY ACADEMIC PROGRESS FOR
FINANCIAL AID on pages 18-20).
ACADEMIC PROBATION AND SUSPENSION
Board Policy 3.8
STATEMENT ON SATISFACTORY PROGRESS
(Including Academic Probation and Suspension)
1.
The grading system employed by each college should accurately reflect the academic
achievement of the student. In order to ensure appropriate use of state resources
available for the education of its citizens, each college will develop procedures to monitor
satisfactory progress through its warning, probation and suspension policy.
2.
This policy shall be applicable to all students enrolled for developmental and/or credit
courses, no matter the number of credits for which they are enrolled.
3.
No course may be repeated for credit more than twice. The highest grade received will be
used in calculating the student’s academic average. This does not apply to those courses
that are designed to be repeated for additional credit.
4.
Satisfactory completion of fifty percent of the credits attempted (this phrase means actual
continued enrollment beyond the add/drop period) will be the minimum standard for good
standing.
5.
Students who have completed 11 or fewer credits whose Cumulative Grade Point
Average (CGPA) falls below 1.5 will be given a written warning. Students who have
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completed between 12 and 30 credits inclusive whose CGPA falls below 1.7, and those
who have completed 31 or more credits whose CGPA falls below 2.0, will be given a
written notice that they are placed on academic probation.
6.
Students placed on academic probation will be required to take a reduced course load for
one semester.
7.
Students who, after being placed on academic probation for one semester and after
taking a reduced course load, fail to attain the required CGPA as shown above will be
notified in writing that they are suspended for one semester.
8.
After the period of suspension, students may be reinstated, either as regular or
probationary students, upon application to the college.
9.
An appeals process will be established by each college, which provides for due process.
10.
College procedures will be included in appropriate publications and communications.
(Adopted October 17, 1993; amended January 28, 2002; amended
February 23, 2004; amended September 20, 2004; amended February
14, 2005)
STUDENT ACADEMIC AND FINANCIAL AID APPEALS
Students sometimes wish to register a complaint, express a grievance or appeal a decision
affecting their academic progress at the College. The following steps are suggested:
1.
Check the facts first. More information may clear up the matter.
2.
Appeal directly. Discuss the matter with the person most involved before appealing to
someone else.
3.
If you still feel dissatisfied or feel that the matter is unresolved, contact the appropriate
dean for advice. See below.
Appeals for Academic Probation/ Suspension
Students placed on Academic Probation will be required to take a reduced course load (maximum
of 9 credits). Students who, after being on Academic Probation for one semester, fail to attain the
required CGPA, will be Suspended (registration prohibited) for one semester.
Students may Appeal either Academic Probation or Academic Suspension status by completing a
form (available in offices of Student Development, Registrar, Faculty Secretary, and the
Academic & Student Affairs Dean) and submitting a letter of request (the form directs what to
include and where to deliver both) which are forwarded to the Academic Policy Committee for a
decision. Deadlines for submission are January 10 (for spring semester), June 15 (for summer
session and for fall semester – early consideration), and August 15 (for fall semester).
Students whose Appeals are granted will retain the same Academic Probation or Academic
Suspension Academic Standing – they will not revert back to regular or previous status. Students
on Academic Probation with an approved Appeal will be able to register for a specified number of
credits (more than 9) as determined on a case-by-case basis by the Academic Policy Committee
in hearing their appeal. Students on Academic Suspension with an approved Appeal will be able
to register for a specified number of credits (as opposed to being prohibited from registering for
any credits) as determined on a case-by-case basis by the Academic Policy Committee in
hearing their Appeal.
Refer to STATEMENT ON SATISFACTORY PROGRESS beginning on page 28.
Appeals for Financial Aid Eligibility
Those students who have lost their eligibility for financial aid for failure to meet system-wide
guidelines should direct their concern to the Financial Aid Appeals Committee.
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Refer to SATISFACTORY ACADEMIC PROGRESS FOR FINANCIAL AID on pages 18-20. See
also POLICY ON STUDENT RIGHTS on page 49.
Review of Academic Standing
A student may seek review of the assignment of a grade or other decision affecting academic
status in accordance with the procedure outlined in Section 3 of the POLICY ON STUDENT
RIGHTS on page 59.
FRESH START OPTION
Board Policy 3.8.1
Readmitting students who have a poor academic record may request readmission under the
College’s Fresh Start Option. To apply for this option, please contact the Admissions Office and
complete a readmission application. (Students who have paid their admission application fee will
not be charged again.) To be eligible for this readmission option, the following conditions apply:
 Students must have been away from NCCC for a period of two or more calendar years
prior to requesting a Fresh Start Option.
 All previously earned grades will remain on the student’s transcript but the original grade
point average will not be included in any subsequent computation of a new grade point
average.
 Credit will be given for any course in which the student received a grade of C- or above,
including P (Pass).
 The Fresh Start Option can be used only once.
 The Fresh Start Option does not apply to any completed degree or certificate.
 A student must complete a minimum of 15 credits after returning to college under the
Fresh Start option to be eligible for a degree or certificate, and for graduation honors.
The Fresh Start option does not impact financial aid eligibility determination.
ADMISSION
Board Policy 5.1
Admission at the Community Colleges shall be as follows:
1. Applicants for admission to a Community College should present evidence of graduation
from an approved secondary school or should have been awarded a state high school
diploma or its equivalent, or be qualified under the provisions of Board Policy 5.1.5 –
Home Schooled Students.
2. An applicant should have such maturity and other qualities which indicate an ability to
profit from a program offered by the college.
3. Applicants meeting these qualifications should be admitted to the limits indicated by
available funds and space, and applications received beyond these limitations should be
placed on a waiting list.
4. The college president may grant a special waiver of these requirements for individuals.
5. Notwithstanding the foregoing, whenever in the judgment of the college president the
admission, readmission or registration for any course, whether credit or non-credit, of
any person as a student would constitute an unreasonable threat to the safety of the
people, the security of property or the integrity of academic processes or functions of the
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college, such person may be denied admission or readmission to the college or
registration for the course.
(Adopted March 21, 1966; readopted May 17, 1966; amended May 10, 1971, April 18, 2005,
December 17, 2007)
ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES
Alcoholic beverages may not be consumed on College premises except by those over 21 years of
age at approved College social functions. Such functions must be held in accordance with State
law and College regulations. The Dean of Academic and Student Affairs must be consulted prior
to the planning of any event involving the consumption or possession of alcoholic beverages on
the campus or at an off-campus College-sponsored function. Overuse of alcohol or anti-social
behavior is never acceptable.
CAMPUS DISTURBANCES
“In the interest of assisting in the preservation of academic freedom, including the important
characteristics of access to sources of knowledge, freedom to reach unpressured conclusions,
and respect for freedom of movement and the performance of responsibilities relating to this, the
following policies to guide faculty, students and administrators in case of disruptions on
campuses of the public community colleges in Connecticut:
1. College staff, faculty and students shall be free to exercise their rights as professional
staff, students and citizens of the United States, respecting those professional and
human courtesies which contribute to the success of the academic community.
2. The president, staff, faculty, and students should work to maintain study and research of
ideas and facts of humanity and the universe; lawful free assembly; access to sources of
knowledge; and the freedom of staff to perform teaching and administrative functions.
3. The Board of Trustees believes activities as listed below, and those akin to these, could
result in the need to take disciplinary action to maintain the right and opportunities for all
segments of the campus to learn, to teach and to administrate:
a) occupying and preventing authorized use of facilities;
b) damaging, removing or destroying college property;
c) preventing instruction, research or other authorized activity by disorderly conduct
and/or interfering with access to facilities;
d) physically detaining or removing any person;
e) failing to comply with directives from college officials or law enforcement
personnel issued in the performance of their duties.”
COMPUTING POLICY
All resources and facilities of the Computer Center and campus computing sites are to be used
for legitimate and authorized NCCC academic and administrative purposes. Computing resources
include host computer systems, personal computers and workstations, communication networks,
software and data files.
Students will be subject to appropriate disciplinary action for any unauthorized or illegitimate use
of the computer systems, resources and/or facilities. This includes willful or malicious acts of
deletion, alteration or destruction of computer hardware, modifying any equipment belonging to or
under the control of the Computer Center, and loading or storing non-college licensed software
on College equipment. Users may also be subject to criminal prosecution in accordance with
Section 53a-250 et seq., of the General Statutes.
The College will assign individual accounts to registered students. The account holder is
responsible for all usage on the assigned account. Computer related accounts issued to
individuals are intended for the sole use of those individuals. Any student found utilizing accounts
other than their own will be subject to disciplinary action. In addition, students are not to use the
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College computer resources for monetary gain or for the development of software intended for
sale.
The Acceptable Use Policy for Computing Facilities outlines additional Computer Lab and
Computer Classroom policies. Students can obtain a copy of this policy at the Founders Hall
Computer Center or review the posted policies in each Computer Lab or Computer Classroom.
NCCC reserves the right to monitor its computing resources to protect the integrity of its systems,
workstations, and lab facilities.
ABSOLUTELY NO FOOD OR DRINK IS ALLOWED IN COMPUTER LABS OR CLASSROOMS.
NOTICE OF NON-DISCRIMINATION
Northwestern Connecticut Community College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color,
religious creed, age, gender, gender identity or expression, national origin, marital status,
ancestry, present or past history of mental disorder, learning disability or physical disability,
political belief, veteran status, sexual orientation, genetic information or criminal record.
The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the non-discrimination
policies: Dr. Ruth Gonzalez, Director of Student Development, (Title IX and Section 504/ADA
Coordinator) Northwestern Connecticut Community College, Park Place East, Winsted, CT
06098, Green Woods Hall, (860) 738-6315, rgonzalez@nwcc.edu
PARKING
Northwestern Connecticut Community College
Traffic Regulations
Revised August 1, 2007
Section 1 Rescission of Prior Regulations
Section 1-1. Rescission of Prior Regulations. All prior existing NCCC Traffic Regulations are
hereby rescinded.
Section 2 Use of College Parking Areas
Section 2-1. Permits.
(a) All full-time faculty and staff members shall be issued permanent NCCC parking permits.
Educational Assistants working 17.5 hours or more per week will receive a permanent
parking sticker. The staff member must register his/her vehicle(s) with the College prior to
receiving the permit(s). The staff member shall be responsible for keeping the College
apprised of changes in vehicles used to commute to the College. Permits issued after the
date of approval of these regulations shall be affixed to the left lower corner of the vehicle’s
rear window. This permit will allow a staff member to park in any of the areas specified in
Sections 2-3 (a - b).
Members of the Foundation are eligible to receive permanent stickers. Members shall be
responsible to keep the College apprised of changes in vehicles used to commute to the
College.
(b) Groups of visitors to the College shall be advised to park in Holabird parking lot. Any visitor
with special needs is to contact the host for a special permit. The permit shall be placed
inside the vehicle so that it is easily visible through the front windshield. This permit will allow
a visitor to park in any space of the areas outlined in Sections 2-3 (a - c).
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(c) Upon presentation of a doctor’s note, individuals with short-term disabilities may be given a
temporary, short term permit (for 2 weeks) allowing them to park in faculty/staff lots as
described in Sec. 2-3 (a - b). Any individual who wishes to use reserved spaces described in
Sec. 2-5 for any period of time more than 2 weeks, must obtain official temporary disabled
parking permits from the State Department of Motor Vehicles.
Section 2-2. Regulations for Parking Areas.
(a) As used in this section and elsewhere in these regulations, the term “designated parking
space” or “designated space” means any area between two lines, where marked on parking
lot pavement, intended for short-term parking of a vehicle.
(b) As used in this section and elsewhere in these regulations, the term “reserved parking space”
or “reserved space” means any area between two lines on parking lot pavement intended for
short-term parking of a vehicle as indicated by appropriate signs.
Section 2-3. Parking Regulations for Faculty & Staff
(a) The following parking areas shall be available only to faculty and staff between the hours of
7:00 AM and 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday, only for vehicles displaying NCCC
permanent employee permits, or State-issued disabled parking permits:
(1) Administration Building Lot, (Lot E), 22 Park Place
(2) The English/Goulet Parking Lot, (Lot F), 46/56 Park Place
(3) 150 Wetmore Avenue (Lot A)
(4) Green Woods Parking (Lot B), 119 North Main Street
Appropriate signs shall be erected in clearly visible locations, which indicate that permit only
parking is permitted.
(b) The following parking areas shall be established in the locations indicated on the map on
page 35. Appropriate signs shall be erected in clearly visible locations, which indicate the
restrictions on use of these spaces.
(1) The Regina M. Duffy Administration Building (Lot E), 22 Park Place – One space
for the President’s vehicle, one space accessible for individuals with disabilities,
one visitor’s space, and one space for the state truck.
(2) Courtyard in front of Founders Hall – One space for the Dean of Administration,
one space for the Dean of Academic and Student Affairs, and 2 spaces for
adjunct faculty (15 minute drop-off).
(3) Learning Resource Center (Lot G) – six patron spaces.
(4) English/Goulet Building, 46/56 Park Place - One space for the Director of Human
Resources.
Section 2-4. Parking Regulations for Students & Visitors
(a) The following parking areas shall be available at all times for NCCC students, faculty, staff,
visitors and others having business to conduct at the College. Appropriate signs shall be
erected in clearly visible locations which indicate the limitations on the use of these areas:
(1) Art and Science Center (ASB), 209 Holabird Avenue (Lot D)
(2) The Joyner Learning Center (Lot H) 100 South Main Street
(3) Green Woods (Lot C and Lot J), 119 North Main Street
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2-5. Parking Regulations for Individuals with Disabilities
(a) The dimensions and grading of spaces reserved for individuals with disabilities shall conform
to current state and/or federal statutes. The following spaces shall be available:
(1) Green Woods Hall (Lot B), 119 North Main Street - Six spaces accessible for
individuals with disabilities.
(2) Joyner Learning Center (Lot H), 100 South Main - Three spaces accessible for
individuals with disabilities.
(3) Regina M. Duffy Administration Building (Lot E), 22 Park Place - One space
accessible for individuals with disabilities.
(4) Art and Science Center (ASB), 209 Holabird Avenue (Lot D) - Seven spaces
accessible for individuals with disabilities.
(5) English/Goulet Building, 46/56 Park Place - Two spaces accessible for individuals
with disabilities in between the buildings.
(6) Learning Resource Center (Lot G), 2 Park Place East - Three spaces accessible for
individuals with disabilities.
Section 3 Enforcement of College Traffic Regulations
Section 3-1. Supervision of Restricted Parking Areas.
The Board of Trustees Policy on Traffic Regulations (amended on June 15, 1992) places the
responsibility for enforcement on the President of the College. Accordingly, at the President’s
discretion and direction the following activities will be performed: 1) patrolling of faculty/staff
parking lots; 2) determining which vehicles are parked without authorization; (3) removal of
unauthorized vehicles.
Section 3-2. Removal of Unauthorized Vehicles
If a vehicle is parked in an undesignated area or parked without a proper permit in a reserved
space, the President or her/his designee may, without warning to its owner, issue an order to
remove that vehicle from the College’s property by means of a local towing service. The owner
shall be responsible for the expense of towing and storage. The College will not be responsible
for any damages that may occur.
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35
POLICY ON A DRUG-FREE WORKPLACE
The State of Connecticut is committed to fighting the problem of substance abuse. Substance
abuse jeopardizes a stable family structure, increases crime, impacts worker productivity, and
presents a continuing and growing drain of government funds. For our youth, substance abuse is
an especially serious threat. Drugs destroy their hopes and dreams and, all too often, their very
lives.
The workplace is not immune to the influence of substance abuse. Worker safety, health and
efficiency are adversely affected. Therefore, in harmony with Connecticut’s three-pronged
strategy of education, treatment and enforcement to combat substance abuse and in accordance
with federal legislation, this Drug-Free Workplace Policy has been adopted.
Effective March 18, 1989, the federal government enacted the “Drug-Free Workplace Act”, (41
U.S. Code §§701 et seq.). This act requires that any employer receiving federal funding must
certify that it will maintain a drug-free workplace. Among other things, the act requires that a
policy be published notifying employees that the unlawful manufacture, distribution, possession,
or use of controlled substances is prohibited in the workplace. It also requires that certain actions
be taken if this policy is broken.
General Policies
It is the policy of the State of Connecticut and Northwestern Connecticut Community College that
each employee has a right to come to work and perform his or her job in an environment that is
free from the illegal use of drugs. It is also in the interest of the State and the public that
employees be able to perform their duties safely and efficiently. The State is firmly committed to
promoting high standards of health, safety, and efficient service. Thus, our goal is to maintain a
work environment free from the effects of drug abuse.
It is the policy of the State of Connecticut and Northwestern Connecticut Community College that
employees shall not unlawfully manufacture, distribute, dispense, possess or use a controlled
substance while on the job or in the workplace, or be under the influence of a controlled
substance, not prescribed for him/her by a physician, while on the job or in the workplace. Any
employee violating this policy will be subject to discipline, up to and including termination.
It is the policy of the State of Connecticut and Northwestern Connecticut Community College that
employees with substance abuse problems are encouraged to participate in a counseling or
rehabilitation program prior to being in a disciplinary situation. Employees should be advised of
the Employees Assistance Program provided by the agency and any available drug counseling or
rehabilitation programs.
Employee Requirements
Employees shall not unlawfully use, possess, distribute, dispense or manufacture controlled
substances or be under the influence of a controlled substance while on the job or in the
workplace. Any employee violating this policy will be subject to discipline, up to and including
termination.
“Controlled substances” are specifically defined in federal law and consist of two classes of drugs:
(1) those commonly thought of as “illegal” drugs; and (2) certain medications if not being taken
under a physician’s prescription or according to a physician’s orders, which the federal
government has determined have a potential for abuse, or are potentially physically or
psychologically addictive.
Employees must give notification in writing to the Human Resources Director (or designee) within
five (5) calendar days of any conviction for violation of a criminal drug statute if the violation
occurred in the workplace. A conviction means a finding of guilt (including a plea of nolo
contendre) and/or the imposition of a sentence by a judge or jury in any federal or state court.
This reporting requirement is in addition to any agency work rules that require notice of arrests
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and/or convictions. An employee who is so convicted or who fails to report such a conviction is
subject to discipline, up to and including termination.
“Workplace” includes any locations owned, operated or controlled by the State, whether the
employee is on or off duty, and any other locations while on duty where State business is
conducted, including traveling on State time to or from such work locations.
The agency must notify the appropriate federal agency in writing, as well as the Office of Labor
Relations, within ten (10) calendar days of receiving notice that one of its employees funded
under a federal grant or contract has been convicted for a violation of a state or federal drug
statute occurring in the workplace.
Employees who have substance abuse problems are encouraged to participate in a rehabilitation
program and should be notified of the Employee Assistance Program and available drug
counseling or rehabilitation programs. The federal act requires that an employer take action
within 30 calendar days of receiving notice of a workplace drug conviction to impose discipline
upon and/or to require satisfactory participation in a substance abuse rehabilitation program by
the convicted employee.
Since it is a federal certification requirement that employees be notified of this policy, each
employee will receive a copy of it. The policy will also be available in the Human Resources
Office.
POLICY ON ACCOMMODATIONS OF RELIGIOUS BELIEFS AND PRACTICES
The First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution states that “Congress shall make no law respecting
an establishment of religion or prohibiting the free exercise thereof.” In addition to the
Constitution, Federal and state laws prohibit discrimination against any person on the basis of his
or her religious beliefs.
The obligation of “reasonable accommodation” with respect to religious beliefs and practices is
similar to the obligation to accommodate persons with disabilities. Colleges may be required to
permit exceptions from regular practices and/or schedules to permit an employee or student to
engage in the practice of his or her religion. As in the case of disability accommodation, an
employee or student desiring an accommodation has the responsibility to inform appropriate
persons in a timely and appropriate manner so that accommodations may be considered as early
as possible.
Students
Students have an obligation to notify their instructors in a timely manner regarding anticipated
absences for religious observances. Based on procedures adopted by the College, students may
be required to request accommodations during the first week of an academic semester or within a
prescribed period of time before the anticipated absence. Requests should be made in writing
stating the reason for the request, i.e., conflict with scheduled quiz, test, exam, assignment or
activity, the religious observance that poses the conflict and the date or dates of such holiday. If
an instructor is unfamiliar with a particular religious holiday, he/she may ask the student for a
calendar or other documentation of the religious observance or holiday.
Student questions should be addressed to Dr. Patricia Bouffard, Dean of Academic and Student
Affairs, FH 103, 860-738-6319.
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POLICY AGAINST SEXUAL HARASSMENT
Sexual harassment is a form of sex discrimination which is illegal under state and federal law and
is also prohibited by the Board of Regent’s Nondiscrimination Policy. The Board’s policy
recognizes that sexual harassment undermines the integrity of employer-employee and studentfaculty-staff relationships and interferes with the right of all members of the College community to
work and learn in an environment free from harassment. Such conduct will not be tolerated.
Sexual harassment is any unwelcome sexual advance or request for sexual favors, or any
conduct of a sexual nature when (1) submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or
implicitly a term or condition of an individual’s employment or education, (2) submission to or
rejection of such conduct by an individual is used as a basis for employment or academic
decisions affecting the individual, or (3) such conduct has the purpose or effect of substantially
interfering with an individual’s academic or work performance or creating an intimidating, hostile
or offensive employment or educational environment. Sexual harassment may be verbal, visual
or physical. It may be overt or implicit and may, but need not, have tangible adverse effects on
the victim’s employment or learning experience.
Examples of conduct which may constitute sexual harassment include but are not limited to:
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sexual flirtation, touching, advances or propositions
verbal abuse of a sexual nature
pressure to engage in sexual activity
graphic or suggestive comments about an individual’s dress or appearance
use of sexually degrading words to describe an individual
display of sexually suggestive objects, pictures or photographs
sexual jokes
stereotypic comments based upon gender
threats, demands or suggestions that retention of one’s employment or educational
status is contingent upon toleration of or acquiescence in sexual advances.
The perpetrator of sexual harassment, like the victim of such conduct, may be a man or a woman.
Sexual harassment may involve individuals of the same or opposite sex and, in the College
environment, may involve an employee and a student, an employee and another employee or a
student and another student. Harassment in any of these relationships is a violation of the
Board’s policy.
Because of the power relationship between faculty and student, and between supervisor and
subordinate employee, freedom of choice may be compromised in such relationships.
Accordingly, this policy holds that where a faculty member or professional staff member has
responsibility for a student through teaching, advising, supervision or other obligation, romantic or
sexual liaisons between such persons shall be deemed a violation of this policy. Romantic or
sexual liaisons between supervisors and subordinate employees, while not prohibited, are
strongly discouraged.
It should be noted, additionally, that retaliation against a person for complaining or being
associated in any way with the resolution of a complaint of sexual harassment also violates Board
policy.
What To Do If You Are The Victim of Sexual Harassment
Sexual harassment is NOT an act of friendliness or flirtation, but an abuse of power. It is an illegal
form of sex discrimination under Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972 and under
Connecticut State Statutes. College employees found in violation of the laws on sexual
harassment may be subject to civil and criminal penalties and to personnel discipline policies;
students found in violation may be subject to the disciplinary provisions of the Student
Disciplinary Policy. If you believe you are the victim of sexual harassment at Northwestern
Connecticut Community College, you may discuss the matter confidentially with
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Dr. Patricia Bouffard, Dean of Academic and Student Affairs (FH 103) and/or Wendy Bovia,
Director of Human Resources/Affirmative Action Officer (46 Park Place East). Complaints are
handled in accordance with Affirmative Action Grievance Procedure or NCCC’s Policy on Student
Rights, Student Grievance Procedure.
POLICY ON VIOLENCE IN THE WORKPLACE PREVENTION
On August 4, 1999, the Governor signed Executive Order No. 16 instituting a “zero tolerance”
Violence in the Workplace Prevention Policy for all state agency personnel, contractors,
subcontractors and vendors. In accordance with this directive and in an effort to provide a safe
environment for employees, students, visitors and guests while on the premises of the
Community Colleges or any of its constituent units, the Board has adopted and expanded the
application of the Governor’s policy.
For purposes of this policy, “violence” is defined as an overt act or threat of harm to a person or
property, or any act that poses a substantial threat to the safety of any person or property.
“Premises” is defined as any space owned or leased by the Community Colleges or any of its
constituent units and the surrounding perimeters, including parking lots, vehicles, and any
location where college or system business or activities are conducted. Conduct that may violate
this policy includes, but is not limited to, the following:
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Bringing or possessing any weapons or dangerous instruments of any kind on
Community College premises, unless properly authorized
Using, attempting to use, or threatening to use such weapons or dangerous instruments
Causing or threatening to cause death or physical injury to any individual
Intimidating, harassing or threatening behaviors
Physical abuse or assault, including hitting, beating, stabbing, slapping, poking, kicking,
punching, grabbing, etc.
Verbal abuse, including yelling, shouting, use of sexually, racially or ethnically charged
epithets, obscene phone calls, etc.
Vandalism, arson, or sabotage
Any other act that a reasonable person would consider as inappropriate and/or posing a
danger or threat of violence, including oral or written statements, an intimidating
presence, gestures or expressions that communicate a direct or indirect threat of physical
harm
Reporting Threats or Violent Act
A person who feels that he or she has been subjected to threats or acts of violence as defined
herein, or a person who witnesses such threats or acts, must report the incident to the Office of
the Dean of Academic and Student Affairs and/or to the Human Resources office. Serious
incidents or serious threats of imminent danger to the safety of persons or property
should immediately be reported to proper law enforcement authorities and/or to the
campus Public Safety/Security Officer.
Any individual who has applied for or obtained a protective or restraining order which lists the
premises of the Community Colleges as protected areas, must provide to the Human Resources
office a copy of the petition and declaration used to seek the order, a copy of any temporary
protective or restraining order that is granted, and a copy of any protective or restraining order
that is made permanent. The sensitivity of the information requested is understood and colleges
are responsible for treating such information in a manner that recognizes and respects the
privacy of the reporting person.
Enforcement of this Policy
All reported incidents of violence will be taken seriously and will be dealt with appropriately,
including prompt evaluation, investigation and response. An individual who makes a substantial
threat of violence or commits an act of violence as defined in this policy shall be removed from
39
the premises. Any weapon or dangerous instrument will be confiscated and turned over to
appropriate law enforcement/public safety authorities. There is no reasonable expectation of
privacy with respect to such items on college premises.
Violations of this policy, including knowingly providing a false report, or failing to cooperate fully
with an investigation, may lead to disciplinary action up to and including dismissal from
employment or expulsion from the college. Violations may also result in criminal penalties.
State of Connecticut
Executive Order No. 16
WHEREAS, the State of Connecticut recognizes that workplace violence is a growing problem
that must be addressed; and
WHEREAS, the State is committed to providing its employees with a reasonably safe and healthy
working environment, free from intimidation, harassment, threats, and/or violent acts; and
WHEREAS, violence or the threat of violence by or against any employee of the State of
Connecticut or member of the public in the workplace is unacceptable and will subject the
perpetrator to serious disciplinary action up to and including discharge and criminal penalties.
NOW, THEREFORE, the Governor of the State of Connecticut, acting by virtue of the authority
vested by the Constitution and by the statutes of this state, does hereby ORDER and DIRECT:
1. That all state agency personnel, contractors, subcontractors, and vendors comply with
the following Violence in the Workplace Prevention Policy:
The State of Connecticut adopts a statewide zero tolerance policy for workplace violence.
Therefore, except as may be required as a condition of employment
 No employee shall bring into any state worksite any weapon or dangerous
instrument as defined herein.
 No employee shall use, attempt to use, or threaten to use any such weapon or
dangerous instrument in a state worksite.
 No employee shall cause or threaten to cause death or physical injury to any
individual in a state worksite.
Weapons mean any firearm, including a BB gun, whether loaded or unloaded, any knife
(excluding a small pen or pocket knife), including a switchblade or other knife having an
automatic spring-release device, a stiletto, any police baton or nightstick or any martial
arts weapon or electronic defense weapon.
Dangerous instruments mean any instrument, article, or substance that, under the
circumstances, is capable of causing death or serious physical injury.
Violation of the above reasonable work rules shall subject the employee to disciplinary
action up to and including discharge.
2. That each agency must prominently post this policy and that all managers and
supervisors must clearly communicate this policy to all state employees.
3. That all managers and supervisors are expected to enforce this policy fairly and
uniformly.
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4. That any employee who feels subjected to or witnesses violent, threatening, harassing or
intimidating behavior in the workplace immediately report the incident or statement to
their supervisor, manager or human resources office.
5. That any employee who believes that there is a serious threat to their safety or the safety
of others that requires immediate attention notify proper law enforcement authorities and
his or her manager or supervisor.
6. That any manager or supervisor receiving such a report shall immediately contact their
human resource office to evaluate, investigate and take appropriate action.
7. That all parties must cooperate fully when questioned regarding violations of this policy.
8. That all parties be advised that any weapon or dangerous instrument at the worksite will
be confiscated and that there is no reasonable expectation of privacy with respect to such
items in the workplace.
9. That this order applies to all state employees in the executive branch.
10. That each agency will monitor the effective implementation of the policy.
11. That this order shall take effect immediately.
POLICY ON CONSENSUAL RELATIONSHIPS
The Board of Regents for Higher Education respects that the educational mission of its
institutions is founded on an atmosphere of mutual trust and respect between all members of the
academic community. Faculty members, as well as those individuals upon whom the institution
confers managerial, supervisory, or evaluative responsibilities, carry a special responsibility to
adhere to the highest ethical and professional standards and to avoid any actions that may
appear to undermine this atmosphere of trust and respect and thereby hinder the institution’s
educational mission.
Because of the inherent imbalance of power and need for trust, faculty members, supervisory
staff, and those with evaluative authority should be aware that dating or sexual relationships that
might be appropriate in other circumstances have inherent dangers when they occur between a
staff member and a student as well as when they occur between a supervisor and employee.
Such relationships can create real conflicts, are susceptible to an appearance of exploitation, and
can impair the trust and integrity of the teaching, coaching, or other supervisory or evaluative
relationship and may cause a perception of favoritism or bias on the part of the staff. In addition,
although these relationships may begin and remain consensual, they may easily be later
characterized as non-consensual and could potentially lead to sexual harassment charges.
Prohibited
Between employee and student: Consensual romantic, dating, or sexual relationships between
any employee and any student over whom that employee exercises direct or otherwise significant
academic, supervisory, or evaluative authority or influence are prohibited at all Community
Colleges or any of its constituent units. The evaluative relationship can take a variety of forms,
such as teacher to student, advisor to advisee, coach to athlete, supervisor to student employee,
or similar relationship.
Strongly Discouraged
Between employee and student: Romantic, dating or sexual relationships between employees
and students over whom said employee does not have supervisory or evaluative authority are
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strongly discouraged. Such relationships are not only susceptible to future conflicts of interest, but
also may present the appearance of impropriety.
If this situation exists, no employee should agree to supervise or evaluate a student with whom
he or she has, or formerly had, a consensual relationship. A faculty member should inform the
Dean of Academics and Student Affairs if such a student wishes to enroll in a credit bearing
course that he or she is teaching so that alternate arrangements can be made. Nor should a
faculty member direct the student’s independent study, internship, or thesis; participate in
decisions regarding grades; or write letters of recommendation or reference.
In the event of a Sexual Harassment Charge
Anyone who enters into a romantic, dating or sexual relationship where a professional power
differential exists must realize that if a charge of sexual harassment is subsequently filed, it may
be difficult to defend the charge by claiming that there was mutual consent. Employees could be
held personally liable in a criminal or civil lawsuit.
Sanctions
All violations of this policy should be reported to Dr. Patricia Bouffard, Dean of Academic and
Student Affairs (FH 103) and/or Wendy Bovia, Director of Human Resources (46 Park Place
East) for investigation and appropriate administrative action, up to and including disciplinary
action.
SEX OFFENDERS ON CAMPUS
Board of Trustees Policy 5.1.1
Whenever in the judgment of the college president the continued presence of a convicted sex
offender who has been previously admitted or registered as a student, credit or non-credit, would
constitute an unreasonable threat to the safety of people, the security of property or the integrity
of academic processes and functions of the college, such person may be denied continued
attendance as a student or have limitations placed on participation in college activities and/or
access to college property.
The decision to exclude a person under this provision must be based on an assessment of the
risk presented by the continued presence of the convicted sex offender, who normally must be
allowed to provide information pertinent to the decision. The decision to exclude such person may
not be based solely on the person’s status as a convicted sex offender, nor shall any person use
information regarding a convicted sex offender to injure or harass any person.
The decision of the president shall be final.
(Adopted December 17, 2007)
SMOKING
Smoking is prohibited in all buildings on campus, including building porches, in accordance with
State regulations. This includes e-cigarettes.
TELEPHONE - SUPPLY USE
The College’s telephones and supplies should not be utilized for personal business.
TRADING - SOLICITING
The College does not grant permission for off-campus groups or individuals to solicit funds on
College property. The sale of tickets for events or fund-raising activities of NCCC student
organizations is normally advertised in the Campus Voice.
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GENERAL INFORMATION
CLASS CANCELLATION INFORMATION: 860-738-6464
If snow or icy driving conditions cause the postponement or cancellation of classes,
announcements will be made over television stations WFSB-TV3, WTNH-TV8 and WVIT-TV30
and radio stations WKZE and WZBG between 6:30 a.m.- 8:00 a.m. for day classes and after 3:00
p.m. for evening classes starting at 5:00 p.m. A morning announcement does not apply to
evening classes unless specifically stated.
Daytime classes at off-campus sites are canceled if the College cancels classes or if the offcampus site closes its facilities.
Evening classes at off-campus sites are canceled if the College cancels its on-campus evening
classes or if the off-campus facility cancels its evening program.
Students and staff may call the College directly at 860-738-6464 to hear a recorded message
concerning inclement weather closing. College closings and delays will also be posted on the
college’s website at: www.nwcc.edu. Students are urged to exercise their own judgment in case
road conditions in their localities are hazardous for travel. If, in an emergency, the Office of the
Governor of the State of Connecticut announces closing of all state offices, no classes will be
conducted at Northwestern.
A new Emergency Notification system will be installed during the Fall of 2015; for more
information, go to http://my.commnet.edu/ to sign up to receive important text and phone alerts.
CREDIT BY EXAMINATION
In certain cases, the College grants credit for the successful completion of a written examination
prepared by the College faculty in subject areas not included in the College Level Exam Program
(CLEP). To apply for Credit by Examination, the student must be a matriculated student and must
be registered at the College during the semester the exam is to be administered. Forms are
available at the Information Center (FH 104), in the Office of the Dean of Academic and Student
Affairs (FH 103), and in the Faculty Secretary’s Office (FX 217). Please follow the instructions on
the form. Please note: payment is required before you can take the exam.
The appropriate Division Director or Coordinator will notify the student if the credit-by-exam
request has been approved. An examination time will then be set. When an acceptable score is
received, the course title, number and hours are recorded with the notation “credit by
examination”. No grades are given, and the student’s grade point average is not affected.
Examinations may be given only once and in a subject area where the student has not received
college credit in more advanced courses.
DISABILITY/ACCESSIBILITY SERVICES
Students who are seeking academic adjustments because of a disability need to provide
documentation of the disability to the Disability Office (Green Woods Hall, 211) four weeks
before the semester begins. Academic adjustments will be determined based on the
documentation provided. More information about documentation requirements can be found on
the disability services website at http://www.nwcc.edu/current-students/center-studentdevelopment/students-with-disabilities or you may also contact Dr. Christine Woodcock, Learning
Disabilities Specialist, at 860-738-6318 or via email at cwoodcock@nwcc.edu . All documentation
should be sent to Dr. Christine Woodcock, NCCC, Green Woods Hall, Park Place East, Winsted,
CT 06098.
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Northwestern Connecticut Community College complies with the Americans with Disabilities
Act (ADA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 by providing appropriate academic
adjustments for students with disabilities to level the playing field for their success.
Students’ Rights
 Students have the right to choose to identify themselves as having disabilities, to
participate in the decisions about their academic adjustments, and to have records
released only with their written consent.
Students’ Responsibilities
 Students have the responsibility to provide documentation of their disabilities, to request
academic adjustments in a timely manner, and to submit the Academic Adjustment Form
to the instructors.
Any person having inquiries concerning Northwestern Connecticut Community College’s
compliance with Section 504 and/or the ADA is directed to contact Dr. Ruth Gonzalez, Director of
Student Development / ADA Coordinator, Green Woods Hall, 860-738-6315. Dr. Gonzalez has
been designated by the College to coordinate the institutions’ efforts to comply with these
regulations.
FACILITIES
NCCC eagerly seeks additional facilities for the campus. The College prides itself on the physical
appearance and condition of its present facilities and is reluctant to divert a portion of an already
strained budget to repairs and maintenance that arise out of carelessness and abuse.
With these considerations in mind, we hope you will understand and cooperate with the few
restrictions placed on the use of the College’s facilities.
Smoking and the consumption of food or beverages are not allowed in classrooms, studios,
laboratories, corridors or any carpeted area of the College.
Reservation for student use of College facilities must be approved by the Dean of
Administration’s Office, FH 105.
FIELD TRIP POLICIES
 All field trips must be endorsed by the academic or administrative department from which the
trip originates. All such field trips must then be approved at least 2 weeks in advance by all
appropriate Deans at the College.
 All campus clubs and organizations planning to sponsor a field trip or off campus event, must
contact the Student Activities office at least 3 weeks before the event.
 All field trips must have a College employee from the professional staff present as an escort.
 The College employee escorting a field trip is responsible for the direction of the trip. The
escort is in charge of the field trip and provides direction to the provider of transportation. The
bus driver has no authority to change the route or alter the scheduled departure times.
 The College escort is not obligated to hold the bus beyond the scheduled departure and
return times. If, for any reason, a field trip participant misses the scheduled departure time at
the appointed location, the individual assumes responsibility for his/her own transportation.
 Smoking, consumption of alcoholic beverages, use of illegal drugs, or disruptive behavior is
prohibited on the bus.
 Use of radios or tape players is prohibited except when headphones are used for private
listening.
 The escort may order a passenger off the bus at any appropriate safe location for abusive or
disruptive conduct or failure to abide by directives of the trip escort.
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

The escort is authorized to take other action as necessary to assure a safe and enjoyable
field trip.
Students are expected to participate in all scheduled activities required by an instructor acting
as an escort.
FIRE, BOMB AND EMERGENCY ALERT PROCEDURES
When a faculty member or other responsible College official orders evacuation of a building, or
the fire alarm sounds, all students should immediately vacate the classroom or building following
Fire Exit signs which are posted prominently over exit doors throughout Founders Hall, Green
Woods Hall, the Learning Resource Center, and the Joyner Learning Center. Students and staff
should then move away from the building in order not to interfere with the movement of
emergency vehicles. Students on the main campus in Founders Hall and in the Learning
Resource Center should evacuate into the park past the bandstand. Students at Green Woods
Hall should evacuate into the south parking lot facing Holabird Avenue. Students at the Joyner
Learning Center should evacuate north of the parking lot on South Main Street. Students at the
Art and Science Center should evacuate to the south end of the parking lot toward Holabird
Avenue. Students should take all possessions with them (books, coats, packages, etc.)
Suspicious or unclaimed packages should not be moved but reported immediately to the
instructor.
After an emergency evacuation, classes will resume at the point at which they were interrupted,
and the class schedule for the remainder of the day will continue on that basis. NO classes will be
cancelled.
FIRST AID PROCEDURES
Life Threatening Emergencies:
 Life threatening emergencies include unconsciousness, difficulty breathing, choking,
seizures, chest pain, serious bleeding, rape/assault.
 Get Help! Call 911. (if using a classroom phone, dial 9-911)
 Render aid as appropriate.
 If possible, send someone to meet Emergency Personnel to direct them to the scene.
General medical problems:
 General medical problems (injuries/illness) include conditions with no threat to life or limb.
 Render aid as appropriate.
 Direct the person to the nearest First Aid Kit.
 If needed accompany the person or send another person with them.
 Ask if they need assistance to home, hospital, or doctor.
General Information:
 First aid kits are available in all buildings on campus.
GRADUATION
To receive a degree or certificate from Northwestern all students must apply through the
Registrar’s Office. Applications are available by late August in the office or online at
http://www.nwcc.edu/assets/uploads/files/forms/graduation_application.pdf . All students must
schedule a graduation review with their Academic Advisor prior to submitting the graduation
application. In addition to satisfying academic requirements, students must be matriculated in a
Northwestern degree or certificate program to be eligible to graduate. Matriculation includes the
Admissions application and fee, official proof of high school completion and proof of vaccination
against measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella unless you are age exempt. The College Catalog
contains other pertinent graduation information.
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A Graduation Application and signed Curriculum Sheet MUST be submitted to the Registrar’s
Office by November 20, 2015 for January graduation and by March 31, 2016 for May
graduation. Graduation will be held on Thursday, May 26, 2016.
INSURANCE
All enrolled students are covered by School Time Only Accident and Injury Insurance. For more
information, contact the office of the Dean of Academic and Student Affairs, FH 103.
JOBS
Opportunities for full and part time employment are listed at the Center for Student Development
in Green Woods Hall 208. Campus visits by employers are also posted throughout the year. Staff
work closely with the Torrington office of CT Works (Department of Labor) to bring information on
job trends and openings to NCCC.
JOBS ON CAMPUS
A listing of student part-time campus jobs is available from the Financial Aid Office, GW 224.
Students are paid no less than $9.60 an hour. Work hours are flexible. Students must have
applied for Financial Aid and be enrolled at least half-time. Financial Aid eligibility will be used to
determine eligibility to work. Applications for work/study are available in the Financial Aid office.
MATRICULATION
Students matriculate by:
1. completing the application form or applying online at http://my.commnet.edu
2. enrolling in a specific academic degree or certificate program;
3. submitting a high school transcript, GED, or home-schooled document;
4. submitting evidence of measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella immunization;
5. paying the non-refundable application fee of $20.
For more specific information please go to http://www.nwcc.edu/future-students/degree-seekingstudents
PUBLICATIONS
The Campus Voice is published weekly by the Student Activities Office through the fall and spring
semesters. The Campus Voice focuses on student information such as student events or trips,
career information, job listings, transfer information, college open houses, financial aid,
scholarship information, academic dates, club activities and more. Start your week by regularly
checking the Campus Voice and the Campus Calendar online. A limited number of copies will be
distributed on campus in Founders Hall, the Learning Resource Center (library), Green Woods
Hall, Joyner Learning Center, and the Art and Science Center. The Campus Voice may also be
viewed online on the College website www.nwcc.edu. Submissions for topics of interest to
students are welcome through the Student Activities Office, GW 110, 860-738-6343, or email
Susan Widmer at swidmer@nwcc.edu. We reserve the right to edit notices.
REGISTRATION
Registration dates and times are advertised and published in the semester schedule. Returning
students are normally given first option on course selection and allowed to register prior to the
conclusion of the semester in session. Full-time students must meet with their faculty advisors to
choose their courses for the semester. The add/drop period extends from the first day of
registration through the end of the registration period as described in the schedule.
General policies concerning transcript requests, grade reports, changes in student records and
withdrawal policies can be found in the College catalog under “Academics”.
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WITHDRAWAL FROM THE COLLEGE
For official withdrawal a student who wishes to withdraw from the College should:
1. obtain the necessary withdrawal form from the Registrar’s Office;
2. discuss with an advisor the reasons for withdrawal and obtain the signature of an advisor
on the withdrawal form;
3. clear all library obligations with the Director of Library Services;
4. inform the Financial Aid Office, if a Financial Aid recipient;
5. clear all obligations with the Business Office;
6. return the completed withdrawal form to the Registrar.
See ATTENTION FINANCIAL AID RECIPIENTS.
WITHDRAWAL FROM COURSES
Authorization to withdraw from a course is granted by the Registrar after a student has obtained
the signature of his or her instructor and returned a withdrawal form to the Office of the Registrar
for processing by the withdrawal deadline. Follow up is the responsibility of the student.
A student may withdraw from a course(s) with a grade of "W" up to the end of the 11th week of
the semester (for the fall and spring semesters). This deadline is published in the College
Calendar. The withdrawal deadline for accelerated (early finish or late start) courses is at the 75%
completion date of the course. Withdrawal deadlines for accelerated courses will be published in
the College Schedule.
A student who misses the withdrawal deadline and has the instructor's permission to withdraw
from the course may file an appeal for withdrawal after the deadline. The student must complete
an "Appeal for Withdrawal After the Deadline" form. Forms can be obtained from, and returned to,
the office of the Dean of Academic and Student Affairs. The appeal form must be signed by the
instructor indicating his/her permission for withdrawal before the appeal will be considered.
After the withdrawal deadline, an instructor may deny the request for withdrawal and record an
"F" in accordance with his or her written course outline policy. The "F" will be recorded by the
faculty member at the end of the semester.
A student may not obtain a transcript notation of "W" in a course if there exists substantial reason
to believe the student has engaged in a violation of academic integrity in the course. A transcript
notation of "W" will only be permitted for such student when the final resolution results in a finding
the student did not commit a violation of academic integrity in the course.
If a student who is receiving financial aid withdraws from a course, he or she must notify the
Financial Aid Office immediately. See ATTENTION FINANCIAL AID RECIPIENTS below.
If a veteran withdraws from a course, he or she must notify the Veterans’ Counselor immediately,
and also follow the withdrawal procedures of the College. When the veteran withdraws, the
College must notify the Veterans Administration which may reduce the educational assistance
payments to the veteran. Reduction in the veteran’s training status becomes effective the first
day of the semester unless mitigating circumstances are found.
ATTENTION FINANCIAL AID RECIPIENTS: If you withdraw from the College or incrementally
withdraw from all semester coursework, you may have to repay financial aid awarded you. Any
student receiving financial aid whose actual class attendance cannot be verified must repay all
financial aid awarded.
All financial aid recipients who are either withdrawing from the College or course work should
meet with a Financial Aid Counselor prior to submitting withdrawal forms to the Registrar’s Office.
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This is an opportunity to learn how your action may affect your award or future financial aid
eligibility.
A student receiving a Federal Pell Grant, SEOG grant, Federal Direct Loan or Federal Direct
PLUS loan who withdraws from the College or incrementally withdraws from course work before
they have completed more than 60% of the semester (9th week) will have their award prorated to
reflect their enrollment. For example, if you withdraw from courses after the 3 rd week, you have
earned 3/15ths or a fifth of your award. The remaining balance or 4/5ths of your award would be
repaid to the U.S. Department of Education. You would repay a percentage of your award paid to
you. Aid recipients who withdraw after having completed more than 60% of the semester will
have earned 100% of their award. The College may use an earlier date such as the last date that
you attended classes to determine the effective date of your last enrollment. Be informed before
you act. Schedule an appointment to meet with a Financial Aid Counselor by calling
860-738-6326.
POLICY ON STUDENT RIGHTS
5.2.1 Policy on Student Conduct
Section 1: Student Conduct Philosophy
Academic institutions exist for the transmission of knowledge, the pursuit of truth, the
development of students and the general well-being of society. This Policy is intended to ensure
that members of the College community are able to pursue their goals in an atmosphere free from
unreasonable interference or threat of interference.
This Policy is also intended to foster the development of important values, including
accountability, responsibility, fairness, respect for self and others, appreciation of personal
freedoms and a recognition of the importance of physical safety in the College community.
Compliance with the Policy provides an opportunity to develop and practice skills in leadership,
group process, decision making and ethical and moral reasoning. Students who demonstrate
these values and possess these skills are more likely to find success and fulfillment in their
academic, professional, family and personal endeavors.
This Policy sets forth a number of expectations for student conduct and prescribes procedures for
enforcement. Since students are assumed to be at various stages of moral and social
development, sanctions imposed should attempt to assist students in their growth and
development, wherever possible. However, the paramount consideration must always be to
protect members of the College community and the educational process from harm.
Section 2: Application of the Student Conduct Policy
This Policy applies to student conduct on campus and on other property or facilities owned,
controlled or used by the College. It also applies to student conduct on premises not owned,
controlled or used by the College if the off-campus conduct impairs College-related activities or
affairs of another member of the College community or creates a risk of harm to any member or
members of the College community.
Conduct on or off College premises that is prohibited by federal, state or local law, codes and
ordinances is also covered. Students who engage in behavior prohibited by law may be subject
to civil or criminal sanctions as well as to the sanctions of this Policy.
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Additionally, where a court of law has found a student to have violated the law, a College has the
right to impose the sanctions of this Policy even though the conduct does not impair the Collegerelated activities of another member of the College community and does not create a risk of harm
to the College community. The decision to exercise this right will be in the sole discretion of the
President or his/her designee.
For purposes of the Policy on Student Conduct, a “student” is any person who has registered for
at least one (1) course, credit or non-credit, at the College. Student status continues in effect for
two (2) calendar years after the conclusion of the last course in which the student was registered,
unless the student has formally withdrawn from the College, graduated or been expelled.
Section 3: Expectations for Student Conduct
Consistent with the Student Conduct Philosophy set forth in Section 1 of this Policy, students are
expected to:
1. Demonstrate respect for the College community by acting in accordance with published
Board policies and College rules and regulations;
2. Demonstrate academic integrity by not engaging in conduct that has as its intent or effect
the false representation of a student's academic performance, including but not limited to:
a. cheating on an examination,
b. collaborating with others in work to be presented, contrary to the stated rules of
the course,
c. plagiarizing, including the submission of others' ideas or papers (whether
purchased, borrowed or otherwise obtained) as one's own,
d. stealing or having unauthorized access to examination or course materials,
e. falsifying records or laboratory or other data,
f. submitting, if contrary to the rules of a course, work previously presented in
another course, and
g. knowingly assisting another student in any of the above, including an
arrangement whereby any work, classroom performance, examination, or other
activity is submitted or performed by a person other than the student under
whose name the work is submitted or performed;
3. Demonstrate respect for the property of the College and of others by not damaging or
destroying or attempting to damage or destroy such property, and by not possessing or
attempting to possess such property without authorization, including unauthorized entry
to or use of College premises;
4. Demonstrate respect for others by:
a. refraining from conduct that constitutes a danger to the personal health or safety
of one’s self or other members of the College community and guests or licensees
of the College, including intentionally causing or attempting to cause injury;
b. refraining from conduct that obstructs or seriously impairs or attempts to obstruct
or seriously impair College-sponsored or College-authorized activities; and
c. refraining from harassment, which is defined as conduct that is abusive or which
substantially interferes with a person’s pursuit of his or her customary or usual
affairs;
5. Demonstrate respect for others by refraining from sexual misconduct (see the Sexual
Misconduct and Relationship Violence Statement on page 55);
6. Be truthful in all matters and not knowingly make false statements to any employee or
49
agent of the Board or the College with regard to a College- related matter, nor forge, alter
or otherwise misuse any document or record;
7. Comply with the directions of College staff members acting within the scope of their
employment responsibilities;
8.
Contribute to a safe and healthy learning and working environment by refraining from the
unauthorized possession or use of weapons or dangerous instruments as defined by law
and pursuant to Board Policy, and by refraining from possessing or using other objects in
a manner that causes harm, threatens or endangers oneself or others;
9.
Respect oneself and others in the community by refraining from knowingly possessing,
using, transferring, selling or being under the influence of any controlled substance, as
defined by law, or possessing or consuming alcoholic beverages unless specifically
authorized, pursuant to Board Policy. Use or possession of a drug authorized by
prescription from a licensed medical practitioner is not covered by this statement;
10. Refrain from any unauthorized use of electronic or other devices to make an audio or
video record of any person while on College premises without his/her prior knowledge or
without his/her expressed consent;
11. Demonstrate good citizenship by not engaging in conduct prohibited by federal, state or
other laws.
12. Conduct oneself in a civil and respectful manner, both within and outside the College.
Students who are found to have violated any of the above-stated expectations by any means,
such as electronic, computer, telephone, internet, text, electronic storage devices or any other
means of any kind whatsoever wherever it may occur or whether or not on campus may be
sanctioned.
Students may be sanctioned for behavior that is not in accordance with the above-stated
expectations.
Section 4: Sanctions
The prior conduct record of a student shall be considered in determining the appropriate sanction
for a student who has been found to have violated any part of Section 3 of this Policy. Sanctions
shall be progressive in nature; that is, more serious sanctions may be imposed if warranted by
the prior conduct record of the student.
A “sanction” may be any action affecting the status of an individual as a student taken by the
College in response to a violation of this Policy, including but not limited to the following:
1. “Expulsion” is a permanent separation from the College that involves denial of all student
privileges, including entrance to College premises;
2. “Suspension” is a temporary separation from the College that involves denial of all student
privileges, including entrance to college premises for the duration of the suspension, and may
include conditions for reinstatement;
3. “Removal of College privileges” involves restrictions on student access to certain locations,
functions and/or activities but does not preclude the student from continuing to pursue his/her
academic program;
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4. “Probation” is a status that indicates either (a) serious misconduct not warranting expulsion,
suspension or removal of College privileges, or (b) repetition of misconduct after a warning
has been imposed;
5. A “Warning” is a written notice to the student indicating that he or she has engaged in conduct
that is in violation of Section 3 of this Policy and that any repetition of such conduct or other
conduct that violates this Policy is likely to result in more serious sanctions;
6. “Community restitution” requires a student to perform a number of hours of service on the
campus or in the community at large.
Section 5: Procedures
The following procedures shall govern the enforcement of this Policy:
1. Information that a student may have violated this Policy should be submitted to the Dean
of Academic and Student Affairs or other designee of the President (hereinafter referred
to as “the Dean”), normally within thirty (30) days of the date of a possible violation or
within thirty (30) days of the date that the facts constituting a possible violation were
known.
2. Upon receipt of information relating to a possible violation, the Dean may immediately
place restrictions on or suspend a student on an interim basis if, in the judgment of the
Dean, the continued presence of the student at the College or continued participation in
the full range of college activities poses a danger to persons or property or constitutes an
ongoing threat of disrupting the academic process.
a. “Interim restrictions” are limitations on the student’s participation in certain
College functions and activities, access to certain locations on campus or access
to certain persons, that do not prevent the student from continuing to pursue
his/her academic program. A student upon whom the Dean has placed interim
restrictions shall be afforded written reasons for the restrictions, as well as the
time period during which the interim restrictions shall apply. The decision of the
Dean regarding interim restrictions shall be final.
b. “Interim suspension” is the temporary separation of the student from the College
that involves the denial of all privileges, including entrance to College premises.
Prior to imposing an interim suspension, the Dean shall make a good faith effort
to meet with the student. At this meeting, the Dean shall inform the student of
the information received and provide the student an opportunity to present other
information for the Dean’s consideration. Based upon the information available
at that time, the Dean shall determine whether the student’s continued presence
on campus poses a danger to persons or property or constitutes an ongoing
threat of disrupting the academic process. A student suspended on an interim
basis by the Dean shall be provided written reasons for the suspension and shall
be entitled to an administrative conference or a hearing as soon as possible,
normally within ten (10) business days from the date the interim suspension was
imposed. The decision of the Dean regarding an interim suspension shall be
final.
3. Following the imposition of interim restrictions or interim suspension, if any, the Dean
shall promptly investigate the information received by meeting with individuals who may
have knowledge of the matter, including the accused student, and by reviewing all
relevant documents. If upon the conclusion of the Dean’s investigation, the Dean
determines that there is insufficient reason to believe the student has committed a
51
violation of any part of Section 3 of this Policy, the Dean shall dismiss the matter and
shall so inform the student in writing.
4. If, upon the conclusion of the Dean’s investigation, the Dean determines that there is
reason to believe the student has committed a violation of any part of Section 3 of this
Policy and, after considering both the possible violation and the prior conduct record of
the student, that a sanction of less than suspension or expulsion is appropriate, the Dean
shall schedule an administrative conference with the student. The student shall be given
reasonable notice of the time and place of the conference. At the administrative
conference, the student shall have the opportunity to present information for the Dean’s
consideration. At the conclusion of the administrative conference, the Dean shall
determine whether it is more likely than not that the student has violated the Policy and, if
so, impose a sanction less than suspension or expulsion. The Dean shall provide the
student with a written explanation for the determination. The decision of the Dean shall
be final.
5. If, upon the conclusion of the Dean’s investigation, the Dean determines that there is
reason to believe the student has committed a violation of any part of Section 3 of this
Policy and, after considering both the violation and the prior conduct record of the
student, that a sanction of suspension or expulsion is appropriate, the Dean shall provide
the student with reasonable written notice of a meeting and shall inform the student that
his/her failure to attend the meeting or to respond to the notice may result in the
imposition of the maximum permissible sanction. At the meeting, the Dean shall provide
the student with a written statement that shall include the following:
a. a concise statement of the alleged facts;
b. the provision(s) of Section 3 that appear to have been violated;
c.
the maximum permissible sanction; and
d. a statement that the student may resolve the matter by mutual agreement with
the Dean, or may request a hearing by notifying the Dean in writing, which must
be received by 5:00pm on the following business day.
6. If the student requests a hearing, he/she is entitled to the following:
a. to be heard, within five (5) business days, or as soon as reasonably possible, by
an impartial party or panel whose members shall be appointed by the Dean;
b. if the Dean appoints an impartial panel, to have a student on the panel, if
requested by the student;
c.
to appear in person and to have a non-lawyer advisor. However, if there is
pending at the time of the hearing a criminal matter pertaining to the same
incident that is the subject of the hearing, a lawyer may be present for the sole
purpose of observing the proceedings and advising the student concerning the
effect of the proceedings on the pending criminal matter;
d. to hear and to question the information presented;
e. to present information, to present witnesses and to make a statement on his or
her behalf; and
f.
to receive a written decision following the hearing.
52
(See Section 6 for additional procedures regarding sexual misconduct.)
7. As used herein, the term “impartial” shall mean that the individual was not a party to the
incident under consideration and has no personal interest in the outcome of the
proceedings. Prior to the commencement of the hearing, the student who is subject to the
hearing may challenge the appointment of an impartial party or panel member on the
ground that the person(s) is (are) not impartial. The challenge shall be made in writing to
the Dean and shall contain the reasons for the assertion that the person(s) is (are) not
impartial. The decision of the Dean shall be final.
8. The written decision of the impartial party or panel shall specify whether, based on the
information presented, it is more likely than not that the student committed the violation(s)
reported and shall state the sanction to be imposed, if any. The written decision shall be
provided to the student.
9. Sanctions imposed by an impartial party or panel are effective immediately. The
President may, for good cause, suspend imposition of the sanctions imposed by the
impartial party or panel to allow the student time to prepare a written request for review.
If a written request is received, the President may continue to suspend imposition of the
sanctions until he/she has reviewed and acted on the student’s request.
10. A written request for review of the decision of the impartial party or panel must be
received by the President within three (3) calendar days after the student is notified of the
decision and must clearly identify the grounds for review. The review by the President is
limited to the record of the hearing, the written request and any supporting documentation
submitted with the request by the student. The decision of the impartial party or the panel
shall be upheld unless the President finds that:
a. a violation of the procedures set forth herein significantly prejudiced the student;
and/or
b. the information presented to the impartial party or panel was not substantial
enough to justify the decision; and/or,
c.
the sanction(s) imposed was (were) disproportionate to the seriousness of the
violation.
11. Decisions under this procedure shall be made only by the College officials indicated.
Section 6: Additional Hearing Procedures for Sexual Misconduct Cases
In any hearing conducted pursuant to Section 5, paragraph 6 of this Policy and involving
allegations of sexual misconduct, the accuser and the accused student shall each have the right
to:
a. be accompanied by a support person during the hearing (see Section 5, paragraph 6c of
this policy regarding limited right to have a lawyer present.); and
b. receive a written report from the Dean indicating the determination of the impartial party
or panel and the sanction(s) imposed on the accused student, if any.
Section 7: Miscellaneous
The written decision resulting from an administrative conference or a hearing under this Policy
shall become part of the student’s educational record and shall be subject to the provisions of the
53
Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). While student educational records are
generally protected from disclosure by FERPA, there are a number of exceptions to this rule.
Students should be aware that a record concerning his/her behavior while a student at the
College may be shared with other colleges or universities to which the student may subsequently
wish to transfer or be admitted. Similarly, prospective employers may require a student to provide
access to his/her College records as part of the employment application process. A record of
having been sanctioned for conduct that violates Section 3 of the Policy may disqualify a student
for admission to another college or university, and may interfere with his/her selection for
employment.
Any question concerning the interpretation or application of this Policy on Student Conduct should
be referred to the President or his/her designee.
Section 8: Publication of Student Conduct Policy
This Policy shall be published in College catalogs and student handbooks and should be
distributed in other ways that are likely to ensure student awareness of the Policy.
Section 9: Policy Review
Five years following adoption of this Policy, and as often thereafter as the Chancellor shall deem
appropriate, the Chancellor shall designate a committee to review the Policy on Student Conduct,
as necessary.
Sexual Misconduct and Relationship Violence Statement:
To insure that each member of the Connecticut Community College community has the
opportunity to participate fully in the process of learning and understanding, the Connecticut
Community Colleges strive to maintain a safe and welcoming environment free from acts of
sexual misconduct and relationship violence. It is the intent of the Colleges to provide safety,
privacy and support to victims of sexual misconduct and relationship violence.
Sexual Misconduct is defined as:

Non-consensual sexual intercourse, which includes any sexual intercourse (anal, oral, or
vaginal), however slight, with any body part or object, by a man or a woman, without
effective consent.

Non-consensual sexual contact, which includes sexual touching, however slight, with any
object, by a man or a woman, without effective consent.

Sexual exploitation, which includes non-consensual, unjust or abusive sexual advantage
taken by a student of another, for his or her own advantage or benefit, or to benefit or
advantage anyone other than the one being exploited, and that behavior does not
otherwise constitute non-consensual sexual intercourse, non-consensual sexual contact
or sexual harassment. Examples of sexual exploitation include, but are not limited to:
prostitution, videotaping consensual sex without a partner’s consent, peeping tommery
and knowingly transmitting sexually transmitted infections without a partner’s knowledge.
Definition of Consent: Consent must be informed, freely and actively given, involving an
understandable exchange of affirmative words or actions, which indicates a willingness to
participate in mutually agreed upon sexual activity. It is the responsibility of the initiator to obtain
clear and affirmative responses at each stage of sexual involvement. The lack of a negative
response is not consent. Consent may not be given by a minor or by any individual who is
54
incapacitated, whether voluntarily or involuntarily, by drugs and/or alcohol. Past consent of
sexual activities does not imply ongoing future consent.
Stalking is defined as: Any behaviors or activities occurring on more than one (1) occasion that
collectively instill fear in the victim and/or threaten her/his safety, mental health and/or physical
health. Such behaviors or activities may include, but are not limited to, whether on or off campus,
non-consensual communications (face to face, telephone, e-mail, etc.), threatening or obscene
gestures, surveillance or being present outside the victim’s classroom or workplace.
Relationship Violence is defined as:

Physical abuse, which can include but is not limited to, slapping, pulling hair or punching.

Threat of abuse, which can include but is not limited to, threatening to hit, harm or use a
weapon on another (whether victim or acquaintance, friend or family member of the
victim) or other forms of verbal threat.

Emotional abuse, which can include but is not limited to, damage to one’s property,
driving recklessly to scare someone, name calling, threatening to hurt one’s pets and
humiliating another person.

Sexual harassment, which can include any unwelcome sexual advance or request for
sexual favors, or any conduct of a sexual nature when submission to such conduct is
made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of an individual’s education;
submission to or rejection of such conduct by an individual is used as a basis for
academic decisions affecting the individual; or such conduct has the purpose or effect of
substantially interfering with an individual’s academic performance or creating an
intimidating, hostile or offensive educational environment. Examples of conduct which
may constitute sexual harassment include but are not limited to:









sexual flirtation, touching, advances or propositions
verbal abuse of a sexual nature
pressure to engage in sexual activity
graphic or suggestive comments about an individual’s dress or appearance
use of sexually degrading words to describe an individual
display of sexually suggestive objects, pictures or photographs
sexual jokes
stereotypic comments based upon gender
threats, demands or suggestions that retention of one’s educational status is
contingent upon toleration of or acquiescence in sexual advances.
The definitions contained in this statement are in addition to any applicable provisions of state
law.
Confidentiality
While the College will treat reports of sexual misconduct and relationship violence seriously and
with sensitivity for all concerned, the College cannot assure complete confidentiality in all
instances with respect to such information, particularly when that information pertains to an
offense or an alleged offender that may affect the safety of others on campus or is mandated to
be reported.
55
Time for Reporting
Normally reports must be received by the Dean of Academic and Student Affairs or other
designee of the President within thirty (30) days of the date of a possible violation or within thirty
(30) days of the date the facts constituting a possible violation were known. However, the
College recognizes that the decision to file a report of sexual misconduct or relationship violence
is difficult and may take some time. Because memories may fade and witnesses may become
inaccessible, the sooner information is gathered, the greater is the ability of the College to
effectively investigate and resolve the matter fairly to all parties concerned.
(Adopted October 18, 1976; amended February 19, 1979, April 20, 1981, July 20, 1981, November 16,
1987, and February 26, 1990, and entirely replaced February 26, 2007. Amended February 22, 2010.)
What to Do
If you, or someone you know, has been sexually assaulted please report it to
Dr. Ruth E. Gonzalez, Greenwoods Hall, Room 208. NCCC’s Sexual Assault Response Team
(SART) can help a victim only if a member of the team is notified. Contacting NCCC SART does
not mean someone has to be charged with a crime. It does mean that a victim will be offered
appropriate care. Anyone can notify NCCC SART by contacting Dr. Ruth E. Gonzalez at
860-738-6315. Additional resources are listed below. All services are free and confidential.
The NCCC SART members are:
Susan B. Anthony Project
860-482-7133 (24 Hour Hotline)
Ruth Gonzalez, PHD
Susan Berg
Kathleen Chapman
Michael Emanuel
Jane O’Grady
Robin Orlomoski
Patricia Bouffard, Ex-Officio
Savannah Schmitt, Student Representative
Jacob Wujcik, Student Representative
860-738-6315
860-738-6342
860-738-6344
860-738-6389
860-738-6393
860-738-6416
860-738-6319
Community Members:
Susan B. Anthony Project (Torrington)
Charlotte Hungerford Hospital
CT Sexual Assault Crisis Services
Winsted Police Department
Torrington Police Department
CT State Police Dispatch
860-482-7133
860-496-6666
888-999-5545
888-568-8332
860-738-6600
860-489-2000
860-626-7900
The most important action is to help you get assistance.
56
GW 208
GW 223
GW 110
FX 308
FX 212
Business 201
FH 103
5.2.2 Policy on Student Rights
Section 1: Rights of Students
It is the policy of Northwestern Connecticut Community College that its educational offerings be
available to students without regard to the individual's race, color, religious creed, sex, age,
national origin, ancestry, present or past history of mental disability, genetic information, marital
status, mental retardation, sexual orientation, learning disability, or physical disability, including,
but not limited to, blindness, or prior conviction of a crime (unless the provisions of sections 46a60(b), 46a-80(b), or 46a-81(b) of the Connecticut General Statutes are controlling or there is a
bona fide occupational qualification excluding persons in one of the above protected groups).
With respect to the foregoing, discrimination on the basis of sex shall include sexual harassment
as defined in Section 46a-60(8) of the Connecticut General Statutes. Further, the college will not
discriminate against any person on the grounds of political beliefs or veteran status.
Students are entitled to an atmosphere conducive to learning and to impartial treatment in all
aspects of the teacher-student relationship. The student should not be forced by the authority
inherent in the instructional role to make particular personal choices as to political action or his or
her own part in society. Evaluation of students and the award of credit must be based on
academic performance professionally judged and not on matters irrelevant to that performance,
whether personality, race, religion, degree of political activism, or personal beliefs. Students are
free to take reasoned exception to the data or views offered in any course of study, but they are
responsible for learning the content of the course of study as defined by official college
publications.
Community college students are both citizens and members of the academic community. As
citizens they enjoy the same freedom of speech, peaceful assembly, and right of petition that
other citizens enjoy, and as members of the academic community they are subject to the
obligations which accrue to them by virtue of this membership.
Section 2: Student Grievance Procedure
1. Definition: A grievance is an allegation by a student that, as to him or her, an agent of the
college has violated board or college policies relating to students other than assignment
of grades or other academic evaluation (see Section 3: Review of Academic Standing).
2. How to file a grievance: A grievance is to be submitted in writing to Dr. Patricia Bouffard,
Dean of Academic and Student Affairs, FH 103, 860-738-6319, within thirty days of the
date the grievant knew or reasonably should have known of the alleged violation. The
written grievance shall specify the right claimed to have been violated and state briefly
the underlying facts.
3. Procedure for grievance resolution: The Dean shall investigate the grievance and, within
thirty days from the time the grievance was submitted recommend to the president a
disposition of the grievance, except as provided hereinafter:
a. In the course of each investigation, the Dean shall consult with the dean
responsible for the area of college operations in which the grievance arose.
b. In the case of a grievance alleging discrimination based on race, color,
religious creed, sex, age, national origin, ancestry, present or past history of
mental disorder, marital status, mental retardation or physical disability, prior
conviction of a crime, political beliefs, veteran status, or sexual preference, the
Dean shall consult with the Affirmative Action Officer.
57
c. In the case of a grievance against a dean, the grievance shall be filed with the
president.
The president may accept or reject the recommendation, or direct such further
investigation as he or she deems appropriate. The president shall notify the student of
the final disposition of the grievance within fifteen days of receiving the recommendation,
except for good cause or as provided in 4. below.
4. Advisory Committee: The president may establish an advisory committee of students and
staff which may be charged with the responsibility of making recommendations at either
the level of the deans or the president. The president may appoint and remove members
of the committee. If an advisory committee is appointed, the president shall establish a
reasonable time frame within which the committee must make recommendations.
Section 3: Review of Academic Standing
A student may seek review of the assignment of a grade or other decision affecting academic
status in accordance with the following procedure:
The Academic Appeal process provides a way for students to appeal academic disputes with an
instructor. The steps of the appeal process must be followed in order and in a timely manner. The
details concerning the timeline and process are described below.
Timing of Appeals
Academic Appeals by a student must be initiated no later than fifteen calendar days after of the
posting of the student's final grade. The student can obtain the Appeal Packet from the office of
the Dean of Academic and Student Affairs. Each successive step in the appeals process must be
initiated within four calendar weeks of completion of the prior step.
Confidentiality
Under the Family Educational Rights & Privacy Act of 1974, as amended, a student’s education
record may not be disclosed without the written permission of the student. The materials from this
process will not be disclosed and will remain in the possession of the office of the Dean of
Academic and Student Affairs.
At any time a student may seek the assistance of others in preparing a request for review
of academic standing. However, consistent with the student’s responsibility and the
developmental mission of the College, in all meetings and communications with faculty
and others pursuant to this Policy, a student may neither be accompanied by an advisor,
advocate or attorney nor will the College communicate with an advisor, advocate or
attorney for the student.
DRUG AND ALCOHOL ISSUES
Colleges and universities have a special opportunity to assist their students with problems. We
recognize that sometimes it is difficult to stop using drugs or alcohol even when you want to do
so.
Northwestern is committed to helping students with concerns regarding alcohol and/or drug
use/abuse and strongly supports programs that promote healthy life choices. As a result of this
commitment the following staff members are available to students who may have concerns.
If you or someone you know needs help with a substance abuse problem, please call one of the
following numbers to speak to any one of these committee members:
Kathy Chapman……………….860-738-6344
Sheryl Keeley …………………860-738-6483
Rick Coutant…………………..860-738-6317
Mary Winar…………………….860-738-6378
58
4.15 Policy on Drugs and Alcohol in the Community Colleges
Drugs and Alcohol in the Community Colleges
The Board of Regents of Connecticut State Colleges and Universities endorses the Statement of
the Network of Colleges and Universities Committed to the Elimination of Drug and Alcohol
Abuse that is based on the following premise:
American society is harmed in many ways by the abuse of alcohol and other drugs – decreased
productivity, serious health problems, breakdown of the family structure, and strained social
resources. Problems of illicit use and abuse of substances have a pervasive effect upon many
segments of society – all socio-economic groups, all age levels, and even the unborn. Education
and learning are especially impaired by alcohol abuse and illicit drug use.**
The board recognizes that education regarding alcohol and substance abuse is an appropriate
and even necessary part of contemporary college life. Since the unauthorized use of controlled
substances, in addition to the potential harmful effect it may have on students and employees, is
contrary to state and federal law and regulation, it must be prohibited in any college activity, on or
off the college campus.
Although the conditions of alcohol and drug dependency may be considered disabilities or
handicaps under state and federal law and regulation and board of trustees policy, and
employees and students will not be discriminated against because they have these disabilities, all
students and employees are considered to be responsible for their actions and their conduct.
These provisions shall apply to all colleges under the jurisdiction of the board:
1. No student or employee shall knowingly possess, use, distribute, transmit, sell, or be
under the influence of any controlled substance on the college campus or off the college
campus at a college-sponsored activity, function, or event. Use or possession of a drug
authorized by a medical prescription from a registered physician shall not be a violation of
this provision.
2. All colleges shall develop and enforce policies regarding the sale, distribution,
possession, or consumption of alcoholic beverages on campus, subject to state and
federal law. Consistent with previous board policy, the consumption of alcoholic
beverages on campus may be authorized by the president subject to the following
conditions, as appropriate:
a. when a temporary permit for the sale of alcoholic beverages has been obtained
and dram shop act insurance has been purchased;
b. when a college permit has been obtained;
c. when students bring their own beverages;
d. when alcoholic beverages are provided by a student organization and no fee is
charged for attendance or for said beverages.
3. All colleges shall provide educational programs on the abuse of alcohol and other drugs
and referral for assistance for students and employees who seek it.
Colleges are encouraged to establish campus-wide committees to assist in development
of these programs in response to particular campus needs and identification of referral
resources in their respective service planning regions.
4. This policy shall be published in all college catalogs, faculty and staff manuals, and other
appropriate literature.
5. Failure to comply with this policy will result in invocation of the appropriate disciplinary
procedure and may result in separation from the college and referral to the appropriate
authorities for prosecution.
**Statement of the Network of Colleges and Universities Committed to the Elimination of Drug
and Alcohol Abuse. (Adopted November 20, 1989)
59
Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)
5.7 Notification of Rights under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords students certain rights with
respect to their education records. These rights include:
1. The right to inspect and review the student's education records within 45 days of the
day the College receives a request for access. Students should submit to the Registrar,
Dean, Head of the Academic Department, or other appropriate official, written requests that
identify the record(s) they wish to inspect. The College official will make arrangements for
access and notify the student of the time and place where the records may be inspected. If
the records are not maintained by the College official to whom the request was submitted,
that official shall advise the student of the correct official to whom the request should be
addressed.
2. The right to request amendment of an education record that the student believes is
inaccurate. Students may ask an appropriate College official to amend a record that they
believe is inaccurate. The student should write to the College official, clearly identify the part
of the record he or she wants changed, and specify why he/she believes it is inaccurate. The
College will notify the student of the decision. If the College decides not to amend the record
as requested by the student, the College will advise the student of his or her right to a hearing
regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing
procedures will be provided to the student when notified of the right to a hearing.
NOTE: FERPA is not intended to provide a process to question substantive judgments that
are correctly recorded. For example, the right of challenge does not allow a student to
contest a grade in a course because the student believes that a higher grade should have
been assigned.
3. The right to consent to disclosure of personally identifiable information contained in
the student's education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes
disclosure without consent. FERPA permits disclosure without consent to school officials
with legitimate educational interests. A “school official” includes but is not limited to the
following: a person employed by the College in an administrative, supervisory, academic,
research or support staff position (including law enforcement and security personnel,
counseling and health staff); a person or company with whom the College has contracted
(such as an attorney, auditor, collection agent or official of the National Student
Clearinghouse); a person serving on the Board of Trustees who is authorized to act on its
behalf; or a student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance
committee, or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks. A school official
has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in
order to fulfill his or her professional responsibilities.
FERPA also permits disclosure of education records without consent in connection
with, but not limited to:
 To comply with a judicial order or a lawfully issued subpoena;
 To appropriate parties in a health or safety emergency;
 To officials of another school, upon request, in which the student seeks or intends to
enroll;
 In connection with a student’s request for or receipt of financial aid, as necessary to
determine the eligibility, amount or conditions of the financial aid, or to enforce the terms
and conditions of the aid;
60





To certain officials of the U.S. Department of Education, the Comptroller General, to state
and local educational authorities, in connection with certain state or federally supported
education programs;
To accrediting organizations to carry out their functions;
To organizations conducting certain studies for or on behalf of the College;
The results of an institutional disciplinary proceeding against the alleged perpetrator of a
crime of violence to the alleged victim of that crime with respect to that crime.
Directory information as defined in the policy of the Board of Trustees.
Directory Information as defined by the Board of Trustees of Community Technical
Colleges
The Board of Trustees has designated the following as directory information: student
names and addresses, dates of attendance, full vs. part-time student status, awards and
honors, graduation date, and major/program of study. For purposes of access by military
recruiters only, telephone listings and, if known, age and level of education are also
designated as directory information.
Colleges may disclose directory information without prior consent, unless a student has
exercised the right to refuse to permit the College to release directory information in
accordance with paragraph 4 below.
(Adopted March 20, 2006; amended March 15, 2010)
3. The right to refuse to permit the College to release directory information about the
student, except to school officials with a legitimate educational interest and others as
indicated in paragraph 3 above. To do so, a student exercising this right must notify the
Office of Registrar in writing [Green Woods Hall]. Once filed, this notification becomes a
permanent part of the student’s record until the student instructs the College, in writing, to
remove it.
5. The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged
failures by Colleges to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address
of the Office that administers FERPA is:
Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, SW
Washington, DC 20202-4605
61
Crime Awareness and Campus Security Act
The following statements are required to be distributed to all students and employees by
provisions of the Crime Awareness and Campus Security Act of 1990 and the Connecticut
Campus Safety Act.
A. It is the Policy of Northwestern Connecticut Community College that incidents of criminal action
or other emergencies occurring on campus be reported to one of the following offices:
The Office of the Dean of Administration
The Office of the Director of Human Resources
The Office of the Dean of Academic and Student Affairs
The Office of the President
Campus Security
860-738-6409
860-738-6325
860-738-6320
860-738-6410
860-309-1914
The College will assess the seriousness of all reported incidents and take appropriate action
to protect the person and property of students, employees and guests. In the case of
allegations of serious criminal acts, the College will seek the assistance of police authorities.
Serious criminal acts include but are not limited to murder, rape or other sexual offenses,
robbery, aggravated assault, arson, burglary, and motor vehicle theft.
B. In the event that a situation arises, either on or off campus, that is judged by the Dean of
Administration to constitute an ongoing or continuing threat, a campus wide “timely warning”
will be issued. This warning will be issued through the College e-mail, bulletin boards,
message boards and, if appropriate, the campus’ student newspaper. Anyone with
information warranting a timely warning should report the circumstances to the Dean of
Administration by telephone 860-738-6409 or in person at Founders Hall (FH 105).
C. Northwestern is committed to free access to campus facilities by students and staff consistent
with personal safety and preservation of personal property. During non business hours,
access to all College facilities is by key, if issued, or by admittance via the maintenance
department.
D. The College campus security is provided by Murphy Security Services, Inc. The College’s
security staff does not have arrest authority. All incidents of a criminal nature will be
investigated by the College administration and, in appropriate cases, reported to local or state
police authorities for disposition.
E. The College campus security procedures and practices can be found in Northwestern
Connecticut Community College’s Emergency Guidelines. Students and employees are
encouraged to report situations and conditions which may compromise security and to be
conscious of the need for mutual vigilance. The Campus Crime and Security Surveys are on
file in the office of the Dean of Administration.
F. The College has no formal programs regarding crime prevention.
G. During the most recent calendar year ending on December 31, 2014 and during the
preceding three calendar years, there were no incidents on campus reported to College
authorities or local police agencies of the following criminal offenses: murder, rape or other
sexual offenses, robbery, aggravated assault, arson, burglary, or motor vehicle theft.
H. There are no recognized off-campus student organizations; therefore there is no policy for
monitoring criminal activity at off-campus organizations.
62
I.
There were no arrests on campus for crimes related to liquor law violations, drug abuse
violations and weapons law violations.
J.
Alcoholic beverages may not be consumed on College premises except by those over 21
years of age at approved College social functions. Such functions are held in compliance
with State law and Board of Trustees Policy.
K. No student or employee shall knowingly possess, use, distribute, transmit, sell or be under
the influence of any controlled substance on the College campus or off the College campus
at a College sponsored activity, function, or event. The College is committed to the
enforcement of Federal and State drug laws.
L. The College’s Health and Safety Committee offers programs addressing the prevention of
alcohol and drug abuse are offered at various times during the academic year.
M. The Center for Student Development offers workshops on sexual harassment, date rape and
healthy relationships. The Office of Continuing Education periodically offers courses in selfdefense.
N. If a rape or other sex offense occurs on campus, the crime victim should immediately contact
local police authorities, preserve evidence of the criminal offense, which in the case of rape
would include seeking immediate medical attention before bathing, and report the crime to a
College official listing in paragraph A.

The victim should report the crime to local police authorities; College personnel will
assist the victim in making the report to police if the student so requests.

Victims of sex offenses may seek counseling from the Susan B. Anthony Project in
Torrington at 860-482-7133.

The College will take reasonable action to change a victim’s academic situation and
to assist in changing a victim’s living situation if requested by the victim.

The College will take disciplinary action against perpetrators upon written complaint
by a victim of a sex offense. Such action is provided by Board of Trustees Policy on
Student Discipline. Both the accuser and the accused have the right to have others
present during the disciplinary proceeding. Both the accuser and the accused shall
be informed of the outcome of any institutional disciplinary proceeding alleging a sex
offense. Disciplinary sanctions may include suspension or expulsion from College.
O. Information on registered sex offenders can be found by going to www.ct-gov.org and search
registered offenders.
8/15
63
CONSTITUTION OF
THE NORTHWESTERN CONNECTICUT COMMUNITY COLLEGE
STUDENT SENATE
PREAMBLE
In order to promote the general welfare of the student body, to stimulate interest in activities
contributing to our improvement, and to provide every student with training and experience in
democratic government, we, the students of Northwestern Connecticut Community College, do
hereby decree this Constitution as the official Constitution of the Northwestern Connecticut
Community College Student Senate.
ARTICLE I – THE STUDENT GOVERNMENT
Section 1. The name of this organization shall be the Northwestern Connecticut Community
College Student Senate.
Section 2. The Student Senate shall be composed of nineteen (19) Senators: four (4) from each
class, as defined in the College Catalog, six (6) at-large seats, and five (5) Student Senate
Officers.
Section 3. Each Senator shall have one vote with the exception of the President who shall vote
only in the case of a tie.
Section 4. The powers and duties of Senators shall include the following:
a. Senators may introduce any motions or resolutions which will advance the
purposes of the Student Body or better enable the Senate to achieve its stated
goals.
b. Senators are obliged to keep themselves fully informed of the needs and interests of
the general Student Body.
c. Senators are obliged to attend meetings of the Senate. If a Senator misses four (4)
meetings per semester regardless of the reasons, his/her seat may be revoked at the
discretion of the Senate. A two-thirds (2/3) vote of the entire Senate membership is
required to remove a Senate member for lack of attendance.
Section 5. The Senate shall have the power to enact such legislation as deemed necessary or
advantageous for the proper functioning of its committees. In matters of procedure not regulated
by the Constitution, the Senate and its Committees shall be governed by the latest edition of
Roberts Rules of Order.
Section 6. The Senate shall be regarded as the official representative body of the students at
Northwestern Connecticut Community College and, in this capacity, shall have the authority to
consult with and make recommendations to the faculty and administration regarding matters
affecting student welfare.
Section 7. The Senate shall administer the Student Activity Fund and other sources of income,
and shall be responsible for maintaining accurate records of income, expenditure, and current
balances. Monies from the Student Activity Fund may be used only for purposes consistent with
the interest of the Student Body. In the administration and use of monies from the Student
Activity Fund and other sources, the Senate shall be governed by the policies of the State of
Connecticut.
Section 8. The Senate shall, with approval of the President of the College, have the power to
charter student clubs and organizations and to allocate funds to them.
64
Section 9. The Senate shall be responsible for the promotion of mutual understanding and
cooperation between the College and the general community.
Section 10. The Senate shall, with the approval of the College President, have the power to
enter intercollegiate student associations and organizations to promote the general interests of
the College and the Student Body.
Section 11. The Senate may undertake or support any projects or activities that will serve the
general interests of the College, the Student Body, or the community. Any such projects or
activities shall be subject to the approval of the President of the College.
Section 12. Student members who hold vested interest in decisions of the Senate will be
excluded from voting on those matters. Questions concerning conflicts of interest shall be
decided by the President of the College or his/her delegated subordinate.
Section 13. No Senate member shall be a Senate Officer and an officer of any Senatesupported club or organization concurrently.
Section 14. Regular meetings of the Student Senate shall be held weekly during the regular
academic year when the College is in session. Special meetings shall be called by the President
of the Senate or by the request of four (4) of the voting members of the Senate.
Section 15. All Senate meetings shall be on the College campus, and all meetings, regular or
special, must be posted at least twenty-four (24) hours prior to the meeting.
Section 16. Senate meetings must achieve quorum in order to transact business. A quorum
shall consist of a simple majority of voting members of the Senate. The President of the Senate
is not considered a voting member of the Senate; therefore, the President is not included when
deciding quorum.
Section 17. All meetings of the Student Senate shall be open to members of the Student Body
unless otherwise specified. The full privileges of discussion at a Senate meeting may be
extended to members of the Student Body at the direction of the Senate, but voting privileges
shall at all times be reserved for the Senators.
ARTICLE II - SENATE OFFICERS
Section 1. All Senate Officer candidates must have a combined grade point average (GPA) of
2.0, completed at least twelve (12) credit hours, attended two (2) semesters, and served one
semester as a Senator. Waivers for these requirements must be approved by a two-thirds (2/3)
vote of the entire Senate membership.
Section 2. The President
The executive officer of the Student Senate shall be President of the Student Senate. The
President of the Student Senate shall be elected by the Student Body, and he/she shall exercise
the following duties:
a. The President shall preside over Senate Meetings.
b. The President shall represent the members of the Student Body at official College
ceremonies and/or meetings.
c. The President will act as the liaison between the Student Senate and the rest of the
College community and will report all pertinent information and requests to the
Student Senate.
d. The President may participate in debates at Senate meetings.
e. The President may vote only in the case of a tie vote.
65
f.
The President shall, with advice and consent of two-thirds (2/3) of the entire Senate
membership, have the power to appoint students to fill vacancies occurring between
regular elections for elected posts and committees.
g. The President shall have the power to investigate any expenditures or allocations
from the Student Activity Fund and must report these findings to the Senate within
thirty (30) days.
h. The President shall be a non-voting, ex-officio member of all standing committees.
Section 3. The Vice President
The Vice President shall exercise the following duties:
a. The Vice President shall preside over the Senate meetings in the absence of the
President.
b. The Vice President shall preside over all Judiciary Committee and Election
Committee Meetings except in cases where conflict of interest exists.
c. In the event that the Presidency falls vacant between elections, the Vice President
shall assume the office of President for the remainder of the elected President’s
term. The Student Senate shall then elect, by a simple majority vote of those
members present, a Vice President who shall assume the office for the remainder of
the term. In cases of the withdrawal or removal from office of both the President and
Vice President, the Student Senate shall elect these officers from the Senate, by a
simple majority vote of those members present, to carry out the duties of the
President and the Vice President for the remainder of the term.
d. The Vice President shall be a non-voting, ex-officio member of all standing
committees.
Section 4. The Treasurer
The Treasurer shall exercise the following duties:
a. The Treasurer shall be responsible for the administration of the Student Activity Fund
in accordance with the policies defined by the State of Connecticut, the College
administration, and the Student Senate.
b. The Treasurer shall maintain accurate records of income, expenditures, and current
balances of the Student Activity Fund and other sources of income.
c. The Treasurer shall present a monthly Treasurer’s Report to the Student Senate and
shall also submit a mid-year report showing all income, expenditures, and current
balances of the Student Activity Fund.
d. The Treasurer shall report to the President any questionable expenditures or
allocations from the Student Activity Fund.
e. The Treasurer shall be a non-voting, ex-officio member of the Budget Committee and
shall preside over all meetings.
Section 5. The Recording Secretary
The Recording Secretary shall exercise the following duties:
a. The Recording Secretary shall keep an accurate record of all regular and special
meetings, including the attendance of Senators. Copies of all minutes shall be
distributed, after approval by the Senate, to the President of the College and the
Deans and shall be prominently posted.
b. The Recording Secretary shall post announcements of all special meetings.
c. The Recording Secretary is responsible for maintaining a file of Senate minutes. All
minutes must be kept on file for a minimum of three (3) years.
66
Section 6. The Corresponding Secretary
The Corresponding Secretary shall exercise the following duties:
a. The Corresponding Secretary shall conduct all official Senate correspondences.
b. The Corresponding Secretary shall be responsible for maintaining a file of official
Senate correspondences. All correspondences must be kept on file for a minimum of
three (3) years.
c. In the absence of the elected Recording Secretary, the Corresponding Secretary
shall act as the Recording Secretary.
Section 7. The Executive Board
The President, Vice President, Treasurer, and Secretaries shall form the Executive Board. The
Executive Board shall set the Senate agenda. All agenda items must be submitted to the
Executive Board no later than one (1) hour prior to the Senate meetings. The President, Vice
President, Treasurer, and Secretaries may be requested to perform certain duties other than
those enumerated herein which the Senate President may deem necessary or advisable,
provided such requests are consistent with this Constitution and with the by-laws of the Senate.
Section 8. In the event that any Senate Officer seat becomes vacant, the Student Senate shall,
by majority vote of those members present, fill the seat for the duration of the term.
ARTICLE III – COMMITTEES OF THE SENATE
Section 1. For the purpose of facilitating Senate work on matters that require close scrutiny or
large amounts of time, the following standing committees of the Senate shall exist at all times. All
committees will be formed within two (2) weeks following the fall elections.
a. The Budget Committee
The Budget Committee shall consist of no fewer than four (4) Senators, including the
chairperson who shall be the Treasurer. All budgets of the chartered clubs and
organizations shall go to the committee immediately after being received from the
organization requesting funds. The committee shall examine each budget, then
report its recommendations to the Senate, at which time the budget is acted upon by
the Senate.
b. The Election Committee
The Election Committee shall consist of no fewer than three (3) Senators, including
the chairperson who shall be the Vice President. This committee shall be
responsible for running the elections for Senators, Senate Officers, student
representatives to College committees, and student representatives to assemblies
and boards for the community college system.
c. The Program Committee
The Program Committee shall consist of no fewer than six (6) Senators, including a
non-voting chairperson who will be appointed by the President. The purpose of this
committee is to propose and develop student activities for the academic year.
d. The Judiciary Committee
The Judiciary Committee shall consist of no fewer than five (5) Senators, including
the chairperson who shall be the Vice President. This committee has the
responsibility to investigate cases of Senatorial dereliction of duty or misconduct.
Minutes of this committee’s meetings must be submitted to the Senate at the
conclusion of all investigations and kept on file for a minimum of three (3) years. This
committee shall also render interpretations of the Student Senate Constitution for the
Senate. Decisions on Constitutional interpretations are to be submitted separately
with a copy of the Constitution and kept on file permanently. The Judiciary
Committee shall convene at the request of the Senate. Quorum for this committee
shall consist of all members.
Section 2. When the need arises, the Senate may create ad hoc committees.
67
ARTICLE IV – ELECTION PROCEDURES
Section 1. Any member of the Student Body with a combined grade point average (GPA) of at
least 2.0 is eligible to run for the Student Senate. The requirements for election of Senate
Officers (President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, and Corresponding Secretary) are
defined in ARTICLE II, Section 1. No student may simultaneously be a candidate for more than
one office. No Officer may be twice elected to the same office.
Section 2. Elections of all Student Senate Officers and Senators shall be by secret ballot. Any
Student Body member is eligible to vote for any or all Student Senate Officers or Senators.
Section 3. Elections for Student Senators and Student Senate Officers will be held each Spring
Semester by April 15. Senators and Senate Officers shall begin their terms on the first day of the
Spring Semester Final Examination period, and their terms will expire one year later.
Section 4. Any Senate seats or Senate Officer seats that remain vacant at the start of the Fall
Semester will be filled by a special election held no later than the fourth (4 th) week of classes.
The term for these members shall begin immediately following the elections and run until the last
day of class in the Spring Semester.
Section 5. For an elected position, a candidate must file a nomination application with the
Student Senate at least two (2) weeks before an election. All applications must be endorsed by a
minimum of twenty-five (25) members of the Student Body.
Section 6. The responsibility of conducting fair elections rests with the Election Committee. The
Election Committee shall oversee the election returns and report the results to the Senate.
Section 7. The Judiciary Committee shall investigate complaints of voting irregularities,
determine the recommended disposition of disputed ballots, and report its recommendations to
the Senate. The Senate may declare an election null and void by a two-thirds (2/3) majority vote
of the entire Senate membership. The Senate will then determine a date for a new election. Any
such election must be held no later than one (1) month after the original vote has been nullified.
Section 8. When election returns result in a tie vote, a one-day runoff election will be held no
later than two (2) weeks after the initial election.
ARTICLE V – IMPEACHMENT PROCEDURES
Section 1. Upon receipt of a complaint signed by at least fifty percent (50%) of the entire
membership of the Student Senate or at least fifty (50) other members of the Student Body
charging a Student Senate member with dereliction of his/her duties or misconduct in office, the
Senate shall convene the Judiciary Committee for the purpose of holding an impeachment
hearing. If requested, the Judiciary Committee shall call witnesses to testify at the hearing. The
Committee will decide by a simple majority vote of those members present, whether the evidence
warrants impeachment and will make recommendations to the Senate.
Section 2. The Student Senate, upon the Judiciary Committee’s recommendations, shall,
carefully and fully, examine all evidence and testimony. After considering all evidence and
testimony, the Senate shall, by secret ballot, render its verdict. A two-thirds (2/3) vote of the
entire Senate membership is required to remove a Senator or Senate Officer.
Section 3. In the event that the accused holds a seat on the Judiciary Committee, another
Senator must immediately replace that committee member on the Judiciary Committee. (See
ARTICLE II, Section 2, f.)
68
ARTICLE VI – PROCEDURES FOR AMENDMENT
Section 1. Any proposed amendment to this Constitution must be sponsored by no fewer than
fifty (50) members of the Student Body. The proposed amendment will be introduced at a regular
meeting of the Student Senate.
Section 2. The Recording Secretary of the Senate shall prepare multiple copies of the proposed
amendment(s) and distribute them to all Senate members before the next regular meeting.
Section 3. At the second regular meeting of the Senate after introduction of the proposed
amendment, the Senate shall vote to approve or reject it. Two-thirds (2/3) of the entire Senate
membership must concur with the amendment in order for it to be passed. Before the end of the
semester, the Senate must vote on all proposed amendments.
Section 4. All proposed amendments approved by the Senate must be submitted to the
President of the College for his/her approval.
Section 5. If approved by the College President, the proposed amendment shall be presented
within one (1) week to the members of the Student Body for a vote of approval. A simple majority
of the votes cast is required for ratification. With approval, the amendment immediately becomes
part of the Constitution.
Section 6. The Election Committee shall supervise the ratification process and report the results
to the Senate. The Senate shall be the sole judge of the returns.
Section 7. If, at any point, the proposed amendment does not receive the required approval, it
shall be declared defeated and shall not demand further action.
ARTICLE VII – RATIFICATION OF THIS CONSTITUTION
Section 1. This Constitution shall be declared ratified after having been sponsored by fifty (50)
members of the Student Body and approved by two-thirds (2/3) of the entire voting membership
of the Student Senate, and by the President of the College, and by a simple majority of the
Student Body voting in referendum.
Section 2. All debts against the Student Activity Fund incurred previous to ratification of this
Constitution shall be valid.
Section 3. With ratification of this Constitution, all previous Constitutions are null and void.
Approved by the Student Body on April 22, 2002
69
Staff Listing
Barbara Douglass, Ph.D.
Susan Stiller
President’s Office, Administration Building
President
Executive Assistant to President
Steven Frazier, Ph.D.
Sharon Pronovost
Office of the Dean of Administration, FH 105
Dean of Administration
860-738-6409
Coordinator of Facilities Management & Public Services 860-738-6408
Patricia Bouffard, D.N.Sc.
Cheryl Braman
Susan Widmer
Office of the Dean of Academic & Student Affairs, FH 103
Dean of Academics & Student Affairs
860-738-6319
Administrative Assistant
860-738-6320
Administrative Assistant
860-738-6423
Wendy Bovia
Alice Joyce
Human Resources, 46 Park Place East, 1st floor
Director of Human Resources/Equal Opportunity Officer 860-738-6325
Human Resources Associate
860-738-6324
Darlene Fogerty
Faculty
Secretary 1 / Information Center, FH 104
Deborah Payne
Secretary 2 / Faculty Secretary’s Office, FX 217
860-738-6410
860-738-6406
860-738-6300
(also 6455)
860-738-6379

Stacey Williams
Todd Bryda
Susan Engwall, DVM
Michael Gow
Sharon Gusky
Tara Jo Holmberg
Karen Hunter
Alison Jassen
Sheryl Keeley
Bev King
Douglas Mooney
David Rodgers, Ph.D.
Valerie Royals
Katherine Smith
Robert Beck, Ph.D.
Susan Berg
Michele Better
Karen Collin
April Dolata, Ph.D.
Michael Emanuel, Jr.
Timothy Haskell
Thomas Hodgkin
Douglas Hoffman
Charles Kelly, Ed.D.
Business, Science and Technology
Academic Division Director, FX 216
Professor in History, FX 316
Associate Professor in Veterinary Technology, FX 309
Associate Professor in Computer Systems
Technology, FX 311
Professor in Biology, ASB 204C
Professor in Biology, ASB 206
Academic Associate, ASB 112
Professor in Chemistry/Biology, ASB 204B
Veterinary Technology Technician/Program, JLC
Director of Distance Education, FX 208
Instructor in Chemistry/Biology, ASB 204A
Professor in Business, FX 312
Professor in Business, FX 312
Instructor/Program Coordinator Veterinary Technology
 Liberal Arts and Social Sciences
Professor in Psychology, FX 310
Professor in Graphic Design, GW 223
Professor/Program Coordinator in
Early Childhood Education, FX 308
Associate Professor in Mathematics, FX 318
Associate Professor in English, FX 210
Associate Professor, Program Coordinator in
Criminal Justice, FX 308
Assistant Professor in English, FX 316
Professor in Developmental English/English, FX 212
Instructor in Mathematics, FX 319
Instructor in Human Services, FX 211
70
860-738-6427
860-738-6302
860-738-6485
860-738-6385
860-738-6395
860-738-6363
860-738-6402
860-738-6391
860-738-6483
860-738-6323
860-738-6401
860-738-6387
860-738-6304
860-738-6490
860-738-6386
860-738-6342
860-738-6305
860-738-6336
860-738-6341
860-738-6389
860-738-6376
860-738-6374
860-738-6332
860-738-6353
Janet Nesteruk
Jessica Treat
Crystal Wiggins
Professor in Art, ASB 317
Professor of Developmental English/English, FX 213
Instructor in Mathematics, FX 319
860-738-6384
860-738-6340
860-738-6310

Gary Greco
Paul R. Atkinson
Sarah Bement, Ph.D.
Maureen Chalmers
Constance Hotchkiss
Jayne Goodrich-Mednick
Erica Mumm
Jane O’Grady
D. Pam Rose
Heather Cappabianca
Mary Winar
Collegiate Education for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Persons
Associate Professor/Program Coordinator, for
CEDHH-ASL/IP/Deaf Studies, FH 102-A
860-738-6397
Instructional Specialist, GW 308
860-738-6388
Interpreter/Tutor, FH 102
860-738-6353
Instructional Specialist, FX 309
860-738-6396
 Nursing Program & Allied Health
Academic Division Director, FX 218
Assistant Professor, Nursing, FX 314
Assistant Professor, Nursing, FX 315
Associate Professor/Program Coordinator in
Allied Health, FX 212
Assistant Professor, Nursing, FX 314
Director of Rural Health & Coordinator for
Workforce Development (Allied Health), Goulet 201
Rural Health Aide, Goulet 202
860-738-6372
860-738-6421
860-738-6337
860-738-6393
860-738-6377
860-738-6484
860-738-6378
Learning Resource Center (Library)
General Information
James Patterson
Seth Kershner
Jeremy Withnell
Ann Marie Hyres
Mami Kajiyama-Bequillard
Director of Library Services
Librarian
Library Associate/Public Services
Library Associate/Technical Services
Library Assistant
860-738-6480
860-738-6482
860-738-6481
860-738-6478
860-738-6479
860-738-6456
Laura McCarthy
Susan Dichter
Mary Lou Tanner
Academic Success Center, FH 3rd Floor
Director, FH 302
Academic Associate, FH 307
Program Assistant, FH 302
860-738-6351
860-738-6335
860-738-6348
Leona LeJeune
Center for Workforce Development, Goulet, 56 Park Place
Coordinator for Workforce Development (Manufacturing) 860-738-6444
Caitlin Boger-Hawkins
Planning, Research and Institutional Effectiveness
Director, Administration Building, 2nd Floor
860-738-6441
Student Activities, GW Hall 110
Director
Student Activities Support
860-738-6344
860-738-6343
Kathleen Chapman
Joanne Nardi
Kevin Canady
Darcie Martineau
Admissions, GW Hall 2nd Floor
Director of Enrollment Management
Admissions Recruiter
Administrative Assistant
Louis Bristol
Bonnie Kraft
Financial Aid, GW Hall 2nd Floor
Director
Financial Aid Assistant
71
860-738-6329
860-738-6330
860-738-6328
860-738-6405
Debra Zavatkay
Kristin Kennedy
Alayna Sholtis
Records and Registration, GW Hall 2nd Floor
Registrar
Assistant Registrar
Registration Assistant
860-738-6309
860-738-6312
860-738-6314
Ruth Gonzalez, Ph.D., L.P.C.
Rick Boger-Hawkins
Christine Woodcock, Ph.D.
Rebecca Ozerhoski
Center for Student Development, GW Hall 2nd Floor
Director
Student Services Specialist
Learning Disabilities Specialist
Secretary 2
860-738-6315
860-738-6307
860-738-6318
860-738-6420
Computer Center, FH Annex
Help Desk
Joseph Danajovits
David Conrad
Rick Coutant
Laurie J. Jassen
Jeffrey Southworth
Gregory Waschak
Director of Information Technology
Information Technology Technician 1
Network Manager
Coordinator of Administrative Information Technology
Information Technology Technician 2
Coordinator of Academic Information Technology
Grantley Adams
Duc Tinh
Marketing & Public Relations, Administration Building
Director
860-738-6333
Graphics Specialist/Website Manager (FH LL 07)
860-738-6349
Kim Dragan
Margaret Hayes
Robin Orlomoski
Business Office, 46 Park Place East, 2nd floor
Director of Finance & Administrative Services
Payroll Officer
Fiscal/Administrative Officer
860-738-6418
860-738-6412
860-738-6416
Alice Lapierre
Cynthia Phillips
Cashier’s Office, GW Hall 2nd Floor
Assistant Accountant
Financial Clerk
860-738-6415
860-738-6313
Steve Rines
Janis Williams
Service – Maintenance Staff
Building Superintendent, FH 003
Secretary 1, FH 005
860-738-6346
860-738-6347
Maintenance - evening contact
860-738-6367
860-738-6364
860-738-6365
860-738-6317
860-738-6369
860-738-6371
860-738-6366
860-309-1915
72
INDEX
Highlights and Calendar
3
ID Cards
20
Information Center
20
Internet Wireless Set-up Online
16
Insurance
46
Jobs & Jobs on Campus
46
Joyner Learning Center map
9
Learning Resource Center (Library)
20
Learning Resource Center map
11
Lost & Found
21
Map of Campus
6
Matriculation
46
Mental Health Concerns
21
Non-Discrimination
32
Parking
32
Parking Map
35
Publications (Campus Voice)
23, 46
Registration
46
Religious Beliefs & Practices Policy
37
Restrooms
21
Satisfactory Academic Progress
for Financial Aid
18
Scheduling & Supervision of Events
26
Scholarship Information
21
Sex Offenders on Campus
42
Sexual Harassment Policy
38
Sexual Misconduct/Relationship
Violence Statement
54
Smoking
42
Staff Listing
70
Student Activities Office
21
Student Academic and Financial
Aid Appeals
29
Student Employment
17, 47
Student Records
22
Student Representation on College
Professional Committees
26
Student Rights Policy
48
Student Senate Constitution
64
Student Senate
27
Telephone/Supply Use
42
Trading/Soliciting
42
Transcript Requests
22
Transfer Planning
22
Veterans Information
22
Violence in the Workplace Prev. Policy 39
Where do I go?
4
WIA Liaison
23
Withdrawal from Courses
47
Withdrawal from the College
47
Women’s Resource Center
28
Absences
28
Academic Advising Procedures
13
Academic Probation
28
Academic Suspension
28
Academic Success Center
14
Activities
23
Admission Policy
30
Advisors
14
Alcoholic Beverages
31
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) 44
Art & Science Center Map
12
Athletics, Fitness, & Wellness Programs 23
Attention Financial Aid Recipients
47
Bookstore
14
Building Codes
14
Building Directory
5
Campus Disturbances
31
Campus Events Calendar
23
Campus Newsletter
(Campus Voice)
23, 46
Career Counseling
15
Class Cancellation Information
43
Clubs and Student Organizations
24
College Catalog
15
Collegiate Ed for the Deaf and
Hard-of-Hearing
15
Community Service
26
Computer Center
16
Computing Policy
31
Consensual Relationships Policy
41
Course Substitution
17
Credit by Examination
43
Crime Awareness and Campus
Security Act
62
Disability/Accessibility Services
43
Drug and Alcohol Issues
58
Drug-Free Workplace Policy
36
Facilities
44
Faculty Office Hours
17
Family Educational Rights and
Privacy Act (FERPA)
60
Field Trip Policies
44
Financial Aid and Student Employment 17,47
Fire, Bomb, & Emergency Alert Proc.
45
First Aid Procedures
45
Founders Hall, basement and first floor 7
Founders Hall, second and third floors
8
Fresh Start Option
30
Graduation
45
Green Woods Hall, first, second,
and third floors
10
73